Helon Marie Baldwin Harwell, 92, of Tyler, Texas passed away on May 2, 2013 after a lengthy illness.

A grave side service will be held on Sunday, May 5, 2013 at 4:00pm at Oaklawn Memorial Cemetery, Center Texas. Her nephew, Jeff C. Caid will speak at the graveside service. Arrangements are being handled by Watson & Sons Funeral Home of Center Texas.

Helon was born in Center, Texas, on January 6, 1921. She graduated from Center High School and continued on to receive the following degrees: a Bachelor of Science in 1948 from Stephen F. Austin University, Nacogdoches, Texas, Master of Religious Education in 1949 and Doctor of Religious Education in 1955 from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Ft. Worth, Texas, Master of Arts in 1962 from Northeast Missouri State Teachers College, Kirksville, Missouri, Doctor of Education in 1967 from the East Texas State University, Commerce, Texas.

Helon was married to John Earl Harwell on August 23, 1953. They were married for 59 years.

She retired from Nicholls State University, Thibodaux Louisiana, in 1990, after 23 years as a Professor and Head of the Department of Special Education.

Dr. Harwell is preceded in death by her husband, John Earl Harwell, her parents Aaron F. Baldwin and Bernice Baldwin.

Dr. Harwell is survived by her sister, Fannie B. Caid, nieces and nephews: Lanelle and Joseph Picarella of Tyler, TX, Jeff and Cindy Caid of Tyler, TX, Jean and Bill Cole of Lawrenceville, GA, Chauncey Young, Jr. of Lawrenceville GA, J.D. and Linda Smith of Slidell LA, Terry Harwell, Kerry Earl Harwell, Cheryl Ann Harwell; and many great nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation for the loving care provided "Miss Helon" by our friends at Hamptons Plus Care.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of East Texas, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler, TX 75701.