Helen Ruth Gatson Smith was born in Newton County, Texas to Alexander Gatson, Sr., and Inez Hines Gatson.

She attended Liberty Elementary and went on to graduate from Kerr High School in 1965. She became a Certified CNA in the early 90s.

Helen met and married Erbie Smith in 1968. To this union, five children were born.

Helen was active in the church and attended Liberty Baptist Church. She sang in the choir from a young age and later, was active in Mission.

Helen was employed with Jasper Convalescent for many years. After 16 years of service, she retired. After retirement, she worked as an election poll worker and part-time at the Liberty Community Water Department until her health began to fail. She enjoyed watching horror movies and reading novels. Her all-time favorite was playing video games, especially Nintendo Mario Brothers. She also loved observing human nature. Helen was a woman of few words but had a humorous personality.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Alex and Inez Gatson; sister, Geraldine; and brothers, Alexander "Pat" Gatson, Leemond, Howard, Robert, and Clinton.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory: daughters, LaDonna Smith and Kimberly Smith-Jeffery (Chris); sons, Ryan (Ella), Bryan Lee, and William; grandchildren, Denard, Nakina, Demalius, Ry'Shaud, Kimora, Ry'Shawn, Imara, Ry'Leigh, and Kymara; grandpups, King, Rex, and Beast; sisters, Dorothy, Lois, and Ernestine; brothers, Ira (Melba) and Charles; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.