Helen Major

Helen Marie Walsh Major, 70, joined her Lord and Savior after passing away at home in Chariton on Friday, February 20, 2009. Memorials may be made to the Chariton Library, Lucas County Genealogical Society, or Circle of Life Hospice. Helen was born on September 8, 1938 in Chariton, Iowa to parents John (Herb) Walsh and Jenave Johnson Walsh. While growing up in Chariton, she enjoyed reading, playing with friends, dolls, and her dog Boots, and participating in the Legion band and high school band. She graduated from Chariton High School in 1956. On May 24, 1956, Helen married her high school sweetheart, Lloyd Glen (L.G.) Major, and later became the mother of six children: Lisa, David, Dan, Todd, Heidi, and Jen. She was a full-time mom until all her children were in school. After working 27 years for Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, she retired as Director of Telecommunications. Helen and Lloyd celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2006. Helen was preceded in death by her grandparents: Arthur and Amanda Johnson and Matt and Virgie Walsh, her parents: Herb in 1990 and Jenave in 2006, and her brothers: Bob in 1985 and Leo in 1987. Helen leaves to mourn her passing, ...[more]

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husband Lloyd Major and children: Lisa Major Beeman (Scott) of Ankeny, David Major (Tammy) of Des Moines, Dan Major of Ankeny, Todd Major of Elkhart, Heidi Major Sleister (Darren) of Ankeny, and Jennifer Barker (Chuck) of Des Moines. Grandma Helen is survived by six grandchildren: Amanda Major, Nick Major, Raven Major, Colton Sleister, Ryan Sleister, and Jonathan Major Beeman. She is also survived by many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Others stay in our lives for awhile, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never, ever the same. Helen was this kind of person and left her footprint on family and friends. She was caring, generous, and loving. She was an outstanding mom and grandma. She always saw the good in people and taught unconditional love. She was our inspiration and strength. She enjoyed visiting family and friends, organizing annual family reunions and class reunions, music, reading, and genealogy. Helen's family wishes to thank family and friends for their love, prayers and support. We love you, Mom and Grandma!