Helene D'Nell Stokes of Abilene, Texas (recently of Denton) passed away on Wednesday, September 1, 2021 after a life long struggle with chronic pain. She was lovingly surrounded by her two daughters. Helene was born January 24, 1938 to Myrtle Lee Harendt and J Emmett Deatherage. She grew up and went to school in the small town of Hamby and graduated from Abilene High School. Helene married Ronnie A Stokes on June 1, 1957 and immediately embarked on life as a Navy wife. Together they traveled and lived around the world where they made many friendships that endure to this day. Helene looked forward to starting a family and gave birth in 1959 to their first daughter, Emmi Lee(who sadly passed away several hours after she was born). They were soon blessed with two more daughters. Even while moving frequently with the US Navy, Helene was able to begin her career as a Licensed Vocational Nurse and later as a Licensed Long Term Care Administrator. She had a "calling" and great love for geriatric patients. In 1979 Ronnie and Helene returned to Abilene where she accepted a position as Director of Nursing at the Amy Lynn Nursing Home. She was quickly promoted to the position of Administrator at Clyde Health Care Center where she remained for 28 years. She spent her career providing personal care to the elderly in the final years of their lives. She made a difference in many people's lives including residents, family members, and employees through the years. Helene was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Ray Deatherage; her husband, Ronnie; as well as many beloved family members and dear friends. Helene is survived by her two daughters; Connie Greeley (and her husband Mario) and Cathie Barnett ( and her husband Kennett) her six grandchildren; Oliver Greeley, Jarred Barnett, Nicholas Greeley, Jesa Barnett, John Barnett, and Julia Barnett Cross(and her husband Kelby) her two great granddaughters: Rainne Barnett and Amelia Cross. Helene is also survived by her sister, Dean Snow and brother John Deatherage (and his wife Judy). Funeral Services will be held at North's Funeral Home Chapel Sunday, September 5, 2021 at 1:30 p.m.. Burial to follow at Hamby Cemetery. Visitation will be held Saturday, September 4, 2021 from 5-7 at North's Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.northsfuneralhome.com