Helen Bothwell

Helen was greeted by our Lord at the Gates of Heaven on Friday, June 14, 2024. She was born the third child to the union of Estelle and Luther Bothwell on September 23, 1946 in Attalla, Alabama. 

 Helen’s education began at Attalla Junior High School and Norris High School in Attalla, Alabama. After moving to Iowa, she attended and graduated from Des Moines East High School. She obtained her Bachelor of Science Degree from Drake University in the field of Education. Helen worked in the Des Moines Public Schools as an elementary teacher for 40 years. As a classroom teacher she was always striving to bring out the best in her students. Never settling for less. After retiring, she worked at the Evelyn Davis Center where she continued to assist and touch the lives of many. 

 She was proceeded in death by her parents, grandparents, sister Mary Douthard, David Williams (friend). 

 Left to hold dear her memories are sister, Emma Cason; Udell Cason Sr. (brother-in-law); nieces, Carmen Cason, Misty Douthard; nephew, Udell Quentin Cason and his wife, Sharlo Cason; great nieces, Cierra Cason, Kennedy Cason; great-nephew, Caleb Wallace and D’Marquez Glanton; best friend and sisters to the family, Twyla Woods-Buford and Linda Glover, plus countless friends. 

 Helen was a dedicated and proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. for 49 years and was going to celebrate her status of being a Golden Soror for her 50 years of service in the Spring of 2025. She was a member of Union Missionary Baptist Church and several community organizations such as the National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI) Des Moines Chapter, and the Iowa Alliance of Black School Educators and the National Education Association. 

 Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at Union Missionary Baptist Church at 11:00am.