Helen Pankey

Helen Jean Pankey, 81, was born on August 6, 1938 in Dumas, Arkansas to Johnny Jackson Sr. and Willie Mae Riley. She departed this life on July 2, 2020.

After graduating high school, she moved to Kansas City, Missouri. Helen was employed as a waitress at Sydney Restaurant before beginning her career at the Kansas City VA Medical Center. She worked at the VA beginning in 1960 as a cook and later in her career became a Dietician. She retired in 1993 after 33 years of service.

She accepted Christ at an early age and was a member of Greater Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. She served in many ministries and positions that included Usher Board, Sunday School Teacher, Choir member, and Mother’s Board.

Helen enjoyed spending time with family and friends, going to church, and being around the people she loved. She enjoyed her life to the fullest and will be missed by many.

She was preceded in death by both parents; son Dennis Keith Carter; grandson Michael Carter Jr; four brothers, Johnny Jackson Jr., Ivory Madge, Lee Madge Sr, Walter Madge Jr; three sisters, Glova Briscoe, Betty Gibbs, Patsie Cunningham.

Helen leaves to cherish her memories; her husband, Alphonsozia Pankey of Kansas City, MO; three sons, Larry Carter (Diana) of Phoenix, AZ, Micheal Carter of Kansas City, MO, Melvin Gaines Jr. (Christina) of Columbus, OH; daughter Donna Smith (Dale) of Burnsville, MN; two brothers, Isaiah Spann Sr. (Marilou), Raymond Madge (Harriette) both of Kansas City, MO; two sisters, Velma Bly of Kansas City, MO, Christine Hall of Tennessee; sister-in-law Sharon Madge of Kansas City, MO; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

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