Cover for Helen Grace Taylor King's Obituary
Helen Grace Taylor King Profile Photo

Helen Grace Taylor King

August 21, 1928 — December 16, 2025

Selmer, Tennessee

Helen Grace Taylor King

Helen Grace Taylor King, a cherished soul born on August 21, 1928, in Ramer, Tennessee, was welcomed into the arms of her Heavenly Father on December 16, 2025, at the remarkable age of 97. She was the beloved daughter of the late Frank and Nora Elizabeth Robertson Taylor and the cherished sister to five sisters and two brothers.

In the heart of her youth, Helen found her lifelong love in Frank Estle King, whom she married on February 16, 1947. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love and devotion for 68 wonderful years before Frank's passing on December 4, 2015.

A devoted member of the Second Baptist Church in Selmer, TN, she treasured her church family, always giving her heart to those around her. Helen's bright spirit and unwavering faith were evident to all who knew her.

After graduating from Ramer High School in 1946, she began her career as a telephone operator in Florence, AL, and then dedicated over two decades working for Levi's in Ramer, followed by time in various factories and later at the McNairy County Courthouse working for Nancy Kennedy.

Helen's compassion extended beyond her family, as she actively volunteered at McNairy Regional Hospital as one of the beloved Pink Ladies, and contributed her time to Jesus Care and Feed the Need in her community. Staying busy and making a difference in the lives of others brought her immense joy.

She was a devoted mother and grandmother, enveloped in love by her children and grandchildren, whom she regarded as her angels. Helen's heart brimmed with pride, especially when her great-grandson, Riley, embarked on his college journey. Her granddaughter Brittany lovingly took care of her, providing support and companionship that Helen cherished deeply.

Helen is survived by her daughter, Carol Anne Smith and husband Lynn (a wonderful son-in-law) of Dyersburg, TN; her son, Tony King of Ringgold, GA; four adoring grandchildren—Eric Smith and wife Lisa, Jill Cunningham and husband Chad, Brittany King, and Michael King and wife Macie; along with three great-grandchildren—Riley Smith, Elizabeth Fowlkes, and Joshua Fowlkes; and a host of extended family and friends who will carry her memory close to their hearts.

In addition to her husband and parents, Helen was preceded in death by her beloved daughter-in-law, Marie King; a great-granddaughter, Alara Rosemarie Clementine Clement; five sisters, Nola Robertson, Nova Deadrick, Lois Horton, Lottie Creasy and Dottie Matlock; two brothers, Parnell and Varnell Taylor.

Helen Grace Taylor King’s legacy of love, kindness, and faith will forever shine in the lives she touched. May her beautiful spirit guide us all as we remember the warmth and joy she brought into this world.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Helen Grace Taylor King, please visit our flower store.

Upcoming Services

Visitation

Friday, December 19, 2025

11:00 am - 1:00 pm (Central time)

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Shackelford Funeral Directors - Selmer

160 West Cypress Avenue, Selmer, TN 38375

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Funeral Service

Friday, December 19, 2025

Starts at 1:00 pm (Central time)

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Shackelford Funeral Directors - Selmer

160 West Cypress Avenue, Selmer, TN 38375

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Interment

Friday, December 19, 2025

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Lake Hill Memorial Gardens

3320 Main St, Bethel Springs, TN 38315

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