Helen Virginia Welker, 84, of Richmond, died Monday, July 6, 2020, at Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Richmond.

Helen was born on October 9, 1935, in BonneTerre, the daughter of Jesse and Alva "Nettie" (Huskey) Hedgecorth.  She was united in marriage to Robert "Bob" Lee Welker, Sr., of Gumbo, on May 18, 1952; he preceded her in death on February 9, 2018.

Helen leaves behind: one son, Robert Welker, Jr., of Richmond; three daughters, Dana Sutton of Richmond, Marsha Hoskins of Richmond and Angela Clark of Richmond; 12 grandchildren,  April Fescina (Phillip), Dale Sutton (Rebecca), Wendi Welker (Dwane), Monique Bley (Gary), Robert Welker, III, Jake Welker, Jamie Welker, Tracie Bradley (Jay), Bobby Jones, Jr. (Beth), Lisa Ferdig (Jeff), Billy Clark, Jr. (Ashley) and Jenny Gorham (Patrick); 32 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandsons; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Lowell Hedgecorth and Jesse Hedgecorth, Jr., sister, Rosemary Whaley, and son-in-law, Lonnie Sutton.

Helen was a pastor's wife for over 66 years, who assisted him in his ministry.  She also worked in the dietary department at Ray County Memorial Hospital for several years.  Her fried chicken was the best this side of the Mississippi and the family enjoyed it every Sunday for dinner.  You were her friend for life, if you brought her a little ice cream treat.  She enjoyed singing, often singing in the church.  Her favorite TV shows were Golden Girls and Blue Bloods.  She liked to collect cat figurines.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the donor's choice.  They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Bx 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with Funeral Services will be held on Monday, July 13, 2020, at Thurman Funeral Home, Richmond, with visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M., with services to follow at 11:00 A.M.  Burial will be in Richmond Memory Gardens.  Ceremonies entrusted to Thurman Funeral Home, Richmond.  Please remember to share your memories of Helen with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com .