Smith, Helen Cofer

Helen Cofer Smith, age 81, of Sherman, IL, passed away Thursday, May 15, 2008, at The Christian Village in Lincoln, IL. Friends may visit the family on Friday, May 16, at Mott & Henning, 206 N. Main St. in Athens, from 4-7 P.M. Funeral services will be held at Mott & Henning at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, May 17, with graveside service and burial following at Walnut Hill, Williamsville.

Mrs. Smith was born in Springfield, the daughter of John Willis and Brazilla Edrington Cofer. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, and husbands. She is survived by her sister, Susan Alphin of Williamsville, her children, Carolyn (Brad) Neal of Lincoln, Melva (Tom) Breitenstein of Lake Geneva, Roger (Chris) Theobald of Broadwell, Mark Theobald of Elkhart, Edwina Ellegood of Beason, and Brazilla (Dave) Leonard of Farmersville, eight grandsons, two granddaughters and three great-grandsons.

Mrs. Smith loved living on the farm with her livestock, homing pigeons and dogs. She was a homemaker, businesswoman, and executive secretary in central Illinois, active throughout her life in the Christian churches and many civic organizations. She was a Peace Corp volunteer in Liberia and taught piano lessons for over 50 years. She was well-known for her custom pies, hand-stitched quilts and her passion for those in need.

Memorials may be made to the Sweetwater Christian Church, Buffalo Christian Church or the Animal Protective League in Springfield.