Helen T. Clegg

On March 31, 1958, in Talladega, Alabama, Robert Smith, Sr. and the late Evelyn Heard Smith welcomed their beautiful baby girl, Helen Smith, into the world. Helen was a vibrant force of love and joy, illuminating the lives of all who knew. At an early age, Helen accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior and united with Holy Hill Church of God under the leadership of Bishop Perry Thomas. Her unwavering faith eventually led her to join Emanuel Temple in Anniston, Alabama. Helen, a radiant light in her church, was an active member and served as an usher, missionary, and a member of the hospitality committee sharing some of her favorite dishes. Helen received her formal education while attending the city of Lincoln Public Schools. She continued her education at Ayers Technical College and Gadsden State where she earned an associate degree. She used this knowledge to secure gainful employment at several companies that included Sweet Oil Textile, Gateway, Betty's BBQ, and the Opportunity Center-Easter Seals where she managed the "Coffee Club". Helen was loved by her coworkers and will be remembered for her sweet spirit, loving heart, and beautiful smile. During her 68-year journey on this earth, Helen was not just a loving wife and devoted mother of four but a cherished grandmother who gave the best hugs and always made time for her family. She had a warmth about her that made everyone feel like a friend and never a stranger. Helen's Sundays were spent loving, laughing, and enjoying a home cooked meal with her family. She always found time to support her favorite Alabama football team. On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, the family chain was broken when an angel stopped in Panama City, Florida, her favorite vacation spot, to take Helen Clegg to her new home called Heaven. Helen was greeted at the pearly gates by her mother, Evelyn Smith; sister, Carolyn Smith; brother, Robert Smith, Jr.; and niece, LaQuisha Mims. Helen's memories will forever be cherished by her loving sons, Jamaal (LaTrenda) Clegg, Jeremy Clegg, and Denzel (Cresha Herring) Clegg; daughters, LaKeshia Clegg, Mikayla Embry, and Shanae Collins; grandchildren, Jemareo Clegg, Jemairion Clegg, Jeremy Clegg, Devin Clegg, Kingston McGee, Evelynah Clegg, Taryiah Lincoln Clegg; father, Robert Smith, Sr.; siblings, Daniel (Priscilla) Smith, Stevie Smith, and Linda Thomas; mother-in-law, Ollie Jackson; sisters-in-law, Nadine Best and Norma (Willie) Best; brothers-in-law, Antonio Clegg, Sr., Eric Clegg, Wendell (Kimberly) Gooden; special friends, Maranda Oden and Debbie Veal; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Tributes

Helen T. Clegg

March 31, 1958 - December 3, 2025