She is survived by five children; George O. Pledger (Dorothy) of Caddo Gap, Betty S. Gardner Gilliam (Billy) of Monticello, Will R. Pledger (Corine) of Genoa, James M. Pledger (Virginia) of Judsonia and Carole A. Hamm (Jerry) of Monett, MO; one sister, Marjorie Cutting (Harve) of Sun City, AZ; six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter.
In addition to her parents and husband she was also preceded in death by two brothers, Lt. Colonel Luie D. Stewart and Olney E. Stewart.
She was a devoted member of First United Methodist Church of Monticello where she served as chairman of membership in the Little Rock Conference of UMW, and chairman of District Commission on Missions. She was a Sunday School teacher and hand bell and choir member for many years. She was a member of the Methodist's Women Study Club and secretary of the City Cemetery Association of Monticello. She was a charter member of the Drew Memorial Hospital Auxiliary where she served as the first president and continued as president for twenty years. Helen was also the Southeast Arkansas District Chairman of hospital auxiliaries and received a 3000 hours volunteer pin. She served as county council treasurer for the Northside Home Demonstration Club and as chairman for the Drew County American Red Cross blood drive.
In Green Bay, Wisconsin in 1987, she was elected Supreme Counselor for the United Commercial Travelers Auxiliary of the United States and Canada. She had served in this organization for many years while her husband, Ray, had held offices in the UCT until his death in 1973.
Graveside Service will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 6, 2017 in Oakland Cemetery with Rev. Charles Wayne Gardner officiating. Memorials may be given to the First United Methodist Church Building Fund, 317 South Main, Monticello, AR 71655. Online guestbook at www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(12)
Audrey Ochs Powell
Hot Springs Village, AR Sunday, January 8, 2017 I'm so sorry to read about Helen's passing. We served as officers for the AR Conf. United Methodist Women (many years ago) and I have many fond memories of the meetings we attended. Helen was one of the sweetest persons I know and I still enjoy using her recipe for cheese straws, although mine never lived up to the ones Helen used to bring to all our different meetings. You were all blessed, as were the rest of us, by having Helen in your lives. RIP, Helen!Nancy Rogers Malone
Fort Smith, AR Friday, January 6, 2017 Your mother had many accomplishments----an amazing woman of faith and a leader serving others! A mother is a blessing-----one who nurtures her children with unconditional love and continues to influence them throughout a lifetime. My condolences and prayers are with you during this time of sadness and loss. Nancy Rogers MaloneMary D Lasiter
Wilmar, AR Thursday, January 5, 2017 .Sincere sympathy to the family. She was a great lady .Homer Shirey
, AR Thursday, January 5, 2017 So sorry for your loss Betty and all of your famlyDavid & Debbie (Nichols) Fowler
Monticello, AR Thursday, January 5, 2017 So sorry for the loss of your mom. I remember her as such a sweet person. Your family will be in our thoughts & prayers.Sharon Shook McIntyre
Titusville, FL Thursday, January 5, 2017 Dear Carole,I am so saddened to hear of the loss of your mother. I have very fond memories of she & your dad when I and Nancy would hang out at your house all through high school. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers at this very sad time.
In Christian Love & Friendship,
Sharon
Pam Leeper
Monticello, AR Thursday, January 5, 2017 Dear Mrs. Betty and family,My prayers go out to each of you during this time of loss and healing. God bless each of you.
Dennis Wells
Springdale, AR Thursday, January 5, 2017 Sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family. I remember Mrs. Pledger when we were growing up. A very nice lady. She will be greatly missed.Dennis
Classie Jones Green
Pine Bluff, AR Wednesday, January 4, 2017 To the Pledger Family (HELLO CAROL ) It was a pleasure to know mrs Helen I worked with her on many occasions.My Prayers abd SympathyShirley Sandlin
Dumas, AR Wednesday, January 4, 2017 Love you Betty. You and Billy took excellent care of her.Linda Lauderdale
, MO Wednesday, January 4, 2017 Sending heartfelt sympathy for you Carole, Jerry and all your family. No matter what age, losing a mother is a deep sorrow. I'm praying that God will give you strength, comfort and peace in the difficult days ahead. Your mother will always be with you in your heart.Marijo P Miles
Springfield, MO Wednesday, January 4, 2017 I remember both your Mom and Dad well. They were both very active in the community and in the lives of all of you. Am so very sorry for your loss and it is always hard to let go of a family member especially a parent.