Helen Townsend

Helen Townsend, of Belton, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Sunday, January 25, 2026. She was 87 years old. Helen was born to Claud and Beulah House (Gist) on August 5, 1938, in Scott County, Arkansas. She grew up on a small farm in rural Arkansas with her 2 brothers and 3 sisters. She met her husband, Merl, in Arkansas and they were married September 21, 1959 in Poteau, Oklahoma. They moved to Richmond, California and welcomed their first 2 sons. They relocated to central Texas in 1963 where their other 2 sons and daughter were born.

Helen spent her life raising her 5 children, enjoyed spending time with grandchildren and later studied to receive her GED so she could continue her job at a local church daycare. She enjoyed gardening, reading, crocheting blankets for the family and playing card games and Yahtzee with the grandkids. Family was always a priority and the “Belton Christmas” was the highlight of the year with all of her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids gathering for a fun day!

Helen was affectionately known as Memaw, Grandma or Gran Gran to the grandkids. She was also known and loved by many nieces and nephews as Aunt Helen.

She loved going to church and camp meetings with her sisters. Helen spent time teaching Sunday School classes and teaching the Word to her family. She was a dedicated prayer warrior and her commitment to God and her faith was unwavering. Helen was a long time member of Agape Christian Center in Belton.

Helen is preceded in death by her husband, Merl Townsend; and her parents. Helen is survived by her children, Randy Townsend (Lorrie) of Round Rock, Jerry Townsend (Stacey) of Justin, Larry Townsend of Morgan’s Point Resort, Danny Townsend (Kimberly) of Jarrell, and Lisa Bosley (Rusty) of Kalispell, Montana; grandchildren, Nolan, Kelsie, Davis, Brooke, Victoria, Brandy, Matthew, Michael, Zoe, Joshua, Cassidy, and Zachary; 16 great-grandchildren; brother, Troy House (Gayle); sister, Mae Woodard (Herman); and brother-in-law, Buddy Royal.

The family will receive friends on Friday, January 30, 2026, from 6:00PM-8:00PM, at Harper Talasek Funeral Home in Belton. A Funeral Service is scheduled for Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 2:00PM, at Harper Talasek Funeral Home in Belton. Following the service, Helen will be laid to rest at North Belton Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Helen’s name can be made to the Baylor Scott & White Central Texas Foundation in Temple, at: https://ctxfoundation.bswhealth.com/ways-to-give/donate/