Helen Hale

Helen Frances Hale completed her earthly journey peacefully, surrounded by friends, family, and pets at her home on March 23, 2023. Born November 9, 1930, in Houston, Texas. Helen is preceded in death by her parents Oris Reginald “O.R.” Hale and Etha Jewel Lamkin. Helen is survived by her life partner of 30 years, Leticia Rodriquez; sister Patsy Jo Friedrichs Hancock of Cat Spring, Texas; nieces, nephews, and a host of close friends, former students, and neighbors.

Cherished friend, teacher, humanitarian, lover of animals, human rights advocate and faithful United Methodist, Helen lived a life filled with love, laughter, and learning. A childhood trip to Mexico with her parents and sister, ignited a passion for all things Hispanic. Propelled by an athletic scholarship, Helen pursued a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Rice University, followed by a master’s degree in Spanish from Texas Christian University. She also attended the Baptist Seminary in Fort Worth.

She was a Spanish teacher at Arlington Heights High School for 32 years where she combined her athleticism and cultural acuity as sponsor of the AHHS Spanish Club, cheerleading coach and she often helped with the girl’s track team with shot put and discus.

Continuing in her commitment to bilingual education, even in retirement, Helen was an instructor at Texas Wesleyan University, Tarrant County Community College, and the Fort Worth Police Academy where she authored the Spanish textbook. In 1992 Helen and partner Leticia founded and co-owned Dos Amigas Translation, still in business at the present time.

Helen was a person of deep faith and action as member of Everman United Methodist Church. Her faith called her to serve and mentor through women’s groups, student ministry, mission outreach, trustees, choir, and the staff-parish committee. At the tender age of 85, Helen took her desire to serve on-the-road, traveling with Hurst UMC to Panama providing translation support for medical teams for three years.

Helen will be remembered for her quick wit, her infectious laugh, impeccable work ethic, and her indelible joy.

She loved being surrounded by friends, pets, and family. She found solace in nature. She was a horse lover and created the brand “Lone Star Morgans” with her dad. Helen will be remembered for a life well lived.
Her life will be celebrated Saturday, April 15th at 2:00 pm at Everman United Methodist Church, 530 Townley Dr, Everman, Texas 76140 with a reception to follow in the Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made to Santiago Panama Mission Adventures to support the ongoing ministry of David and Cindy Ceballos: Panama Missions c/o First United Methodist Church, PO Box 99, Hico TX 76457