Helen Carrithers Kincaid, previously Helen C. Sullivan, completed her earthly journey of 97 years on October 21, 2023.

Helen was born on August 20, 1926 to Oliver Roy Carrithers and Leah Wiseman Carrithers in Troy, NC. She was preceded in death by her parents and 4 siblings (Margaret White, Paul Carrithers, Charles Carrithers, and Jean Cornett).

Helen was married to Thomas L. Sullivan, Jr. until his death in 1989, and to Columbus P. Kincaid until his death in 2013.

Helen is survived by her 3 children: Sheri (Doug) Perryman, Tommy (Becky) Sullivan, Brent (Dr. Judy) Sullivan; 4 grandchildren: Chris (Stephanie Ellis) Perryman, Dr. Justin (Leslie) Sullivan, Dr. Zach (Dr. Riley) Sullivan, Lara (Major Micah) Krishnan; 6 great grandchildren: Juliet, Jesse, Scarlett, and Forrest Krishnan, Payton and Rylee Sullivan.

Helen lived on a farm in Montgomery Co. before moving to Caldwell Co., where she attended Hudson School graduating in 1943. She attended Berea College in Kentucky from 1943-45, and then transferred to Radford University in Virginia. There she graduated in 1947 with a B.S. in Home Economics. She taught at Oak Hill High School, Whitnel Elementary, Hudson Elementary, and Hudson Middle Schools in Caldwell County, retiring after 30 years of service.

Helen was an avid gardener, reader, loved travel, and was always ready to spend time with her 4 grandchildren. She enjoyed doing things they loved and made many special memories with them. She created a special bond with each one, that lasted to the end of her earthly journey.

Helen was an active member of Whitnel United Methodist Church where she served as Sunday School teacher, UMW officer and member, nursery worker, Cub Scout den mother, and on numerous committees throughout her adult life. She had a strong Christian faith that she instilled in each of her children. She loved to prepare food to deliver to those ill or grieving, send cards or phone those not able to get out of their homes.

During the latter years of her life, Helen resided at Kingston Residence in Hickory, NC. There she continued to be active and involved. She belonged to the Residents' Association, serving as President and Secretary. She served on the food committee, helped with the care of plants in the courtyard including her special blueberry bushes, frequently left cards under the doors of residents who were ill or having birthdays.

After suffering a massive stroke, Helen resided at Shaire Center in Lenoir, NC for three years. Even though she was unable to hear well or speak clearly, she continued to share her smile and love with the residents and staff at Shaire. Pats on the arm, a warm greeting, or a gracious smile was offered to all she met.

The family expresses its thanks, to the staff at Shaire Center in Lenoir, for the wonderful care and many kindnesses shown to Helen during her time there.

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, November 24, 2023 at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Greer-McElveen Funeral Home.

The family will receive friends Friday, November 24, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Greer-McElveen Funeral Home.

Interment will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Park in Lenoir.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Amorem (Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care), 526 Robbinswood Place, Hudson, NC 28638 or to the church of your choice.

An online guest book and registry is available at www.greer-mcelveenfuneralhome.com

Greer-McElveen Funeral Home is assisting the family.