Helen Hayes VanMeter

Helen Hayes VanMeter, age 84, of Bee Spring, departed this life on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at TriStar Skyline Medical Center in Nashville, TN. The Edmonson County native was born on August 24, 1941 to the late Gilbert and Carrie Harp Hayes. She was married to her loving husband, McNeill VanMeter, until the Lord called him home on November 11, 2018.

Helen devoted her life to her home and family, embracing her role as a wife and mother with a deep and abiding love. Caring for those she cherished was not only her responsibility, but her greatest joy. She was more than a mother—she was a trusted friend, a steady presence, and a source of comfort that her children could always count on, no matter the season of life. During the busy days of tax season, Helen could often be found lending a helping hand alongside McNeill at VanMeter Tax Office, always willing to serve wherever she was needed.

Faith was the cornerstone of Helen’s life, and she expressed it beautifully through song. A proud and faithful member of Bee Spring Missionary Baptist Church, she lent her rich alto voice to the Bee Spring Quartet for many years. Those who knew her often said she had the voice of an angel, and it was never more evident than during church services, when she would sing “I’ll Meet You in the Morning” as the spirit of the Lord would pass by. Her voice was a gift she gave freely and joyfully.

Helen’s love of singing didn’t end at the church doors. She could often be found at Brownsville Karaoke, laughing and singing among friends, filling every room she entered with warmth and light. She had a rare and wonderful ability to make people feel at ease, and her friendships were deep and lasting.

She leaves to honor her memory— her children, Robin VanMeter Ross (Roger) of Munfordville and Brent VanMeter of Chalybeate; granddaughters, Alexis Crews and Mallory Crews, both of Glasgow; great grandson, Nolan Alexander Dockery; sister, Phyllis Wilson of Louisville; sister-in-law, Ronna Sanders (Hulen) of Bee Spring, along with several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends that will cherish her memory. Besides her husband and parents, she was also preceded in death by her siblings, Ocia Elmore, Barbara Vincent, Ruelma Jaggers, Dessie Woodcock, Margaret VanMeter, Jessie, Essie and Athel Hayes.

The interment will be in Bee Spring Church Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to: Bee Spring Church Cemetery Fund or Hospice of Southern Kentucky.

VISITATION

4—7 PM, Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Patton Funeral Home Brownsville Chapel

9—11 AM, Thursday, March 26, 2026

Bee Spring Missionary Baptist Church

FUNERAL SERVICE

11 AM, Thursday, March 26, 2026

Bee Spring Missionary Baptist Church

- ARRANGEMENTS BY PATTON FUNERAL HOME BROWNSVILLE CHAPEL -

Online condolences can be made at www.pattonfuneralhome.com