Helen Lorraine McPhail died on Monday, May 28, 2012, to meet her heavenly father and her savior. For her 98 years on this earth, she served Him in all that she did. She was generous, thoughtful, independent, smart, evangelical, joyful, and ever faithful. Those who loved her are comforted to know she is rejoicing in heaven now with her family.
Born Oct. 14, 1913, in Chattanooga, to Corda Addelou Wade and Thomas McPhail, Helen graduated from Chattanooga High School. She worked for many years at Peerless Woolen Mills as a secretary and later at Provident Life Insurance Company until retirement.
Helen was a lifelong member of Second Presbyterian Church, where she sang in the church choir for many years. Fondly known as Miss Helen to many, she was involved in many church activities including women's circle and church prayer chain, and faithfully attended Sunday services until well into her 90's when health problems made it too difficult. She was well known for her beautiful prayers, and after blindness, deafness, and walking difficulties prevented her from most activity, she was fond of saying that she could still pray for everyone, which she did, fervently and most often on her knees.
She was an avid gardener, mowing her own yard until in her 80's and tending her vegetable and flower gardens, especially her beautiful rose garden. Having no children of their own, she and her elder sister Mildred made countless baby and children's clothes for their relatives' and friends' children. They were accomplished seamstresses and took great pleasure in making their niece's wedding dress. No pattern or design was too difficult, and each item was made with love.
She was predeceased by her parents, sister, Mildred McPhail, brother, C.V. McPhail, and nephew, Major William T. McPhail.
Survivors include her niece, Mary-Charles McPhail Forshay, niece-in-law, Ginger McPhail, great-niece, Michele Forshay Thompson, great-nephews, Gregory Lee Forshay and Stuart William McPhail, five great-great nieces and nephews, and several cousins.
A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 4, at Second Presbyterian Church with Reverend Perry McCallen officiating.
The family will receive friends following the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Second Presbyterian Church, 700 Pine St., Chattanooga, Tn. 37402.
Visit www.lanefh.com to share condolences.
Arrangements are by Lane Funeral Home, Ashland Terrace, 877-3524.