Helen Lucille (Russell) Gantt age 90, formally of Knoxville Tennessee, went to be with Jesus on December 15, 2013. She was born September 21, 1923, in Knoxville, Tennessee to Fred C. Russell and Mary Kate (Thomas) Russell. She married the love of her life Everett Legare Gantt August 17, 1949, who preceded her in death. The newly married couple was called to many different states for work including Alcoa TN, Rockdale, TX, Pittsburg PA and Massena, NY. They left some type of legacy at each place.

The couple was blessed by 2 children a son Russell Legare(Candace) Gantt and a daughter Callie Katye (Marty) Katterheinrich. Helen left a legacy of 4 loving grandchildren, Russell D. Katterheinrich, Laura L. Katterheinrich, Carter J. Gantt and Morgan A. Gantt. She loved attending their school and church activities always cheering them on and encouraging them.

Helen graduated from Knoxville High School in 1941 and was an active member in the 41B Club. She worked for several doctors as a receptionist/nurses aid. She was a long time member and president of Rotary Ann's, American Cancer Society Fundraising Committee and Home Bureau. Bowling, golfing, ceramics, fishing and throwing "Come as You Are Parties" were among her many passions. Helen and her husband were instrumental in founding and building Emmanuel Baptist Church in Potsdam, New York. She gave of her time and talents teaching Sunday school, singing in the choir or trio and playing the piano. Above all else, Helen was devoted most to her husband and children. Always putting herself last and making sure all others were taken care of.

Helen moved to Defiance, OH in 2006 to be with her family. While there she joined the Second Baptist Church, volunteered for many Ravens Care projects, and enjoyed attending helping out wherever and whenever asked.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Carroll Russell, her sister Kathleen (Russell) Husky and several other family members that she has been reunited with in heaven.

On Friday the 20th the family will be receiving friends at 10 A.M. followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m. at Second Baptist Church 1945 E. Second Street, Defiance, OH.

Private family interment will be at Woodlawn Cemetery, Knoxville, Tennessee in the spring.

In lieu of flowers it is requested that a donation in Helen's name be made to the Center for Brain Injury and Repair Candace and Russ Gantt Foundation. It can be mailed to: The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania, 433 Franklin Building, 3471 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104-7589. Memo line – CBIR Gantt Fund

Online condolences may be given at www.SchafferFH.com