Helen Rushing Wilson

Helen Rushing Wilson passed away on Sunday morning, May 10, 2026, surrounded by her children.

Helen was born on August 31, 1938, to Tom and Ernestine Rushing. As the oldest of four, Helen learned at an early age to care for others. She adored her siblings, Tom Rushing Jr and his wife, Vicky; her late brother Charles “Togie” and his wife Theresa; her baby sister Patsy Howard and her husband Gerald; and all of their children.

At the age of 16, Helen married the love of her life, Claytus Wilson. They were married for 69 years before his death in 2023. During those amazing years, they worked as a team in all they did. As a farmer’s wife, she milked cows, drove the farm truck, and held everything together. As a preacher’s wife, she entertained many preachers, church families, and strangers. She gave countless showers, mentored many ladies, and helped her husband any way she could.

In 1959, they welcomed their first born, Stan. Stan brought so much joy and energy into their lives. Stan’s wife Sheila was such a blessing to her.

In 1969, Leigh Anne was born. Both children were blessed to be raised on the farm in Cottage Grove and learned to appreciate the country life. Above all, Helen and Claytus taught their children to love God and put Him first in all things. When Leigh Anne married Steve Durham, Helen was thrilled to know he would always take care of her little girl.

As grandchildren came along, Helen continued that nurturing spirit with Angie, Caleb, and Clay. She loved her family fiercely, and her grandchildren never questioned her love. Helen was blessed to have a total of 21 grandchildren, great and great-great grandchildren.

Helen loved God above everything and was a Sunday school teacher for over 65 years. She loved VBS week and would often co-teach with her daughter. She also loved her East Wood church family, and she truly considered them family!

Helen was always active. She worked as a teller and later as an investment banker for Liberty Federal which became Union Planters. She had lots of hobbies. She was a phenomenal cook. She loved her flowers and caring for her home. She was a member of the Paris Garden Club and a TN Master Gardener. Additionally, she was proud of her heritage and was a member of Daughters of the American Revolution, John Babb Chapter. She also enjoyed fishing and golfing.

Helen made a lasting impact in everything she did and made a lasting impression on everyone she met. She was a true Southern, Christian lady every day of her life!

Ridgeway Funeral Home, 201 Dunlap Street, Paris, TN, 38242, is handling the arrangements. Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and Friday, May 15, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Ridgeway Funeral Home. A funeral service will begin at 12:00 p.m. with Charles Cate officiating.

Burial will follow at Memorial Cemetery with Troy Buttery, Brian Foster, Phillip Brown, David Burden, Caleb Wilson, and Gunner Wilson.