Helen Hope Byrd

Helen Hope Byrd, age 81, sadly left us on July 12, 2024, after a life richly lived in service and kindness. She was born to Stella Clemons and William Woodrow Byrd in Breathitt County, Kentucky.

Helen dedicated her life to teaching, following in the footsteps of so many educators in her family. She graduated from Withrow High School in 1960, earning the Whiting Scholarship to continue her studies at University of Cincinnati, where she graduated as a Cardinal (one of the top 10 of her class) in 1964. She then earned her Masters in Education Degree at Xavier. After her education was complete, her teaching career began at Mt. Airy, where she taught for one year before moving to Springdale Elementary in the Princeton City School District. In all, she taught for 34 years.

She loved children wholeheartedly, pouring herself into making sure they all received the very best start possible, and guiding many lives throughout her years. She inspired children for three decades before retiring in 1998.

In addition to teaching, she was a constant companion and loving caregiver to her Mom for all of her days.

She was a member and deacon of The Presbyterian Church at 23 South Front Street in Hamilton, Ohio for 50 years.

Survivors include two sisters: Gail Wilhelm (and Al) in Hilton Head, SC and Susan Hall in Lewisburg, Ohio; two brothers Bill Byrd (and Judy) of Westchester, Ohio and Larry (and Mary) Byrd in Monument, Colorado; and a special cousin Patricia Keith in Lewisburg, Ohio; She also leaves behind many treasured nieces and nephews, whose lives she greatly impacted, as well as many other cousins and friends. Her two dogs, Molly and Abby, will miss her greatly, too.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her life-long friend, Wanda Jean McCollum. She and Jean traveled extensively with their friends, embarking on great adventures and leaving Helen with fabulous memories that she always cherished.

The family would like to thank Kim Burrell, for so lovingly caring for our sweet Helen for the past 6 years. We couldn’t have done it without you! And, also Pat Keith for her devotion, friendship, and guidance throughout her life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Neuroscience ICU at Good Samaritan, Cincinnati.

Visitation will take place on Friday, July 19, 2024 from 10:00 until the time of the funeral service beginning at 11, at Hodapp Funeral Home in West Chester, OH, 8815 Cincinnati Columbus Rd (US 42) West Chester, OH 45069. Burial will follow at West Chester Township Cemetery.