Helen Smith

Indianapolis, Indiana – Helen M. Smith, 81, went home to Christ, on October 16, 2025, while being comforted by her family and friends. Her kindness and unconditional love will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Helen was born in Bartholomew County on January 17, 1944, and was adopted by her parents Aubrey & Irene (Doup) Price of Indianapolis when she was 7 years old. She graduated from Thomas Carr Howe High School in 1962. Just after high school, she met the love of her life, Richard Smith and the two were married in 1963. They celebrated 62 years of marriage this year before her passing.

Helen raised two wonderful daughters with Dick, and once they were old enough, she went back to school and received her degree in Early Childhood Education from Indiana University. She spent many years teaching children, and helped start Shalom Daycare at Roberts Park United Methodist Church, where she was a Heritage member, for over 65 years. She was also a longtime member of the Nautilus Club in Columbus, Indiana.

Helen loved to travel and see the world. It was a passion that started in childhood with her parents and grew as she did. She and Dick spent many wonderful trips together, including a beautiful final trip to Hawaii.

Helen was truly dedicated to her family and church. She and Dick both sang in the church choir, while Helen’s musical gift for cello and piano allowed her to express her love of music. She and Dick were regular attendees of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra for many years.

Helen is survived by her beloved husband Richard Smith, daughters Cindy Baumgardner (Gary), and Debbie Stanley (Greg); sister Elizabeth Plunkett; and grandchildren Kyle, Trisha, Garrett, Tommy, Aiden, Megan, and Josh.

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East (10722 East Washington Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46229) from 12 pm – 2 pm with entombment following the visitation. A celebration of life will be held at Roberts Park United Methodist Church (401 North Delaware Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46204) on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 12 pm.

In lieu of flowers, Helen’s family asks for memorial donations to be made to Mission Guatemala or Roberts Park United Methodist Church.