Mary Beth Helle

Mary Beth Helle, 74, passed away on Monday, December 25, 2023. She was born on September 27, 1949, in Sharyland, Texas daughter of Marguerite Scurlock and Lawrence Bannworth and raised by her stepfather Mac McLaughlin. She grew up in McAllen, Texas and graduated from McHi class of ‘68. She went on to attend Sam Houston State University and graduated from Pan American University. While in college she worked for Mac at The Drapery Room, which she took over in 1979. In the late 80’s she changed the name of the business to Helle’s Fine Furnishing & Draperies and grew the business from draperies to full design services. As the business grew so did her client base. Mary’s knack for design and service took her business to new heights. Her portfolio of work included multiple banks, hospitals, businesses, as well as clients around the southern US, Mexico, and all over the RGV. Anyone who knew Mary, knew she loved to dance. On any given Sunday you could find Mary out dancing at Pepe’s, Riverside, or local RV Parks. Mary’s only dancing partner for the last 15 years was Ken Barnes. Ken was also her right hand and chauffeur during her illness the last two years, and she always felt the love that he had for her. Although Mary never had children she was very committed to her nephew and niece Sidney Domian and Michelle Domian Putnik and their children. She loved going to every baseball, basketball, and football game she could attend. Mary was surrounded during her illness by an endless parade of friends with food, companionship, and rides. A very special thanks to Scotchie Harrington, Beverly Barron, Phyliss Hutchins, and Lila Lozano for their constant care and attention. Mary is preceded in death by her parents Marguerite Scurlock and Mac McLaughlin, sister Judie Pat Joyce, and brother Pat Bannworth. She is survived by her nephew and niece Sidney Domian and Michelle Putnik, and their spouses, Catherine Domian and Zach Putnik, along with their children Tres Domian, Daniel Domian, Thomas Domian, Brady Putnik, and Hudson Putnik. Visitation will be held Thursday, January 4, 2024, from 6pm-8pm at Kreidler Funeral Home, 314 N. 10th St., McAllen, Texas. A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, January 5, 2024, at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, 301 W. Pecan, McAllen, Texas at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Paws Fur Help, Inc in Mission. Cash app: $pawsfurhelptx. This is a local charity dedicated to rescuing dogs about to be euthanized.

Tributes

Mary Beth Helle

December 25, 2023