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Helen’s life was a living example of kindness, humility, and strength.

Ruth "Helen" Denkins, born on September 1, 1951, in Bladen County, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, at the Lower Cape Fear Hospice Life Care Center in Whiteville, NC. Her journey through life was one marked by love, service, and devotion to her family, faith, and community.

Helen, as she was affectionately known, leaves behind a legacy of warmth and dedication. She is survived by her devoted husband, Leo Denkins, who stood by her side through all of life’s seasons. She was the cherished mother of Ledell Denkins (Tina) and Tyrone Denkins (Patricia), and a beloved grandmother, whose gentle strength and affectionate spirit shaped the lives of many.

Family was the heart of Helen’s world. She is lovingly remembered by her siblings: Mary Highsmith, Shirley Corbett, Annie Murphy, Elaine Highsmith (Floyd), and Doris Highsmith. Her brothers—Ernest Hughsmith, Connie Ray Highsmith (Brenda), Anthony Highsmith (Priscilla), Vincent Highsmith (Carla), Dennis Highsmith (Rochelle), and Scottie Highsmith—held a special place in her heart. Her extended family included in-laws Rev. Harvey Robinson, Margie Highsmith, Kay Denkins, Gracie Sowers, Eunice Pridgen, Evangelist Vera Moreland (Lawrence), and David Denkins (Judy), as well as a loving multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends whose lives she touched deeply.

Homegoing service will be held 1:00pm on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at Pleasant HIll Missionary Baptist Church Natmore Road Kelly, NC. Interment will immediately follow in the Pleasant Hill Church Cemetery. All viewing will be prior to the service on Wednesday during the hour of 12:00pm until 12:50pm at the church.

Helen’s work ethic was deeply admired by all who knew her. She brought diligence and joy to every task, whether it was in her professional life or her cherished home. Cooking and cleaning were not just chores to her—they were acts of love. Gathering loved ones at the table was a particular joy, and she found comfort and entertainment in watching her favorite television show, Law and Order.

To everyone she encountered, Helen extended the hand of friendship. Her home was a place of welcome, laughter, and steadfast support. Those who met her inevitably became part of her wide and loving circle.

A dedicated servant of her faith, Helen was a faithful member of Pleasant Union Missionary Baptist Church. She devoted herself to the senior choir, served as a Deaconess, and participated actively in the church’s Mission. Her recent commitment to The Daughters of Zion was a testament to her enduring desire to grow in fellowship and service.

Helen’s life was a living example of kindness, humility, and strength. She lived each day with gratitude and warmth, easing the burdens of others while steadfastly carrying her own. Her passing is felt deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing her, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide those she leaves behind.