Helen Jane Prater

Longtime resident and wonderful friend to many Mrs. Helen Jane Prater left this world and entered Heaven’s gates on Wednesday morning February 17, 2010 in Fairland, Oklahoma. Helen was born December 7, 1931 to her parents Fred and Amy Helm Smith in Fairland, Oklahoma. On December 27, 1949 Mr. Melvin Prater took Miss Helen Smith as his bride in her home town of Fairland, Oklahoma. Melvin and Helen lived in Miami, Ok for over 50 years while returning to Fairland in 2001 and residing ever since. Helen was a sales clerk and faithful employee of the JC Penney Co. for over 20 years and Hunts Fem Fashions for over 10 years. She also worked for her daughter Anita Smith as book keeper for Sunkissed Floral and Green House for over 20 years. Helen played the piano and sang in the choir for many years at her home church of Fairland First United Methodist Church. Helen touched many lives with her 40 years of dedication teaching Sunday School to the children of Fairland. She will always be honored as a Lifetime Church Member. In 1972 Helen and Melvin started their RVing trips. Many miles were put on their vehicle traveling to every state but two in the union including Canada. Helen loved to travel, crochet and truly enjoyed playing dominoes and cards with their dear friends. Although Helen is no longer with us, her memory and legacy will be kept alive through the family and friends she leaves behind which include: Her Husband of 60 years, Melvin Prater of the home, 2 Daughters: Anita and husband Ben Smith of Miami, Oklahoma and Tammy Jane Prater of Miami, Oklahoma, 1 Son: Mark and wife Dixie Prater of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, 4 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. Helen is preceded in death by her Parents and 2 Sisters: Norma Jean Brummet and Jerry Shaw. Pallbearers include: Ben Smith, Colby Hatley, Kevin Hatley, Jim Love, Alan Loehr and Austin Hatley. Funeral services will be held 10:00 AM, Friday February 19, 2010 at First United Methodist Church of Fairland, Oklahoma with Rev. Carole Minter officiating with Truman Brady assisting. Interment will follow at Seneca Cemetery, Seneca, Missouri. The family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday evening February 18, 2010 from 6-8 PM at Cooper-Althouse Funeral Home of Fairland, Oklahoma. Online condolences and guestbook are available at www.cooperalthousefuneralhome.com

Helen Jane Prater

December 7, 1931 - February 17, 2010