Jeanny Patrice Helton passed away peacefully at her home in Gainesville, Georgia, on January 10, 2026. She was 67. Born right there in Gainesville on March 17, 1958, to Edward Eugene Smith and Vivian Thomas Smith, she spent her whole life rooted in the community she loved. Those North Georgia hills were home from the start.
She shared a deep and lasting love with her husband, Reverend Carl Helton of Lula. Together, they built a family filled with faith, warmth, and togetherness. Jeanny was the heart of it all, the beloved wife who stood by his side through everything.
Her three daughters meant the world to her. April Worley and her husband Mikey in Maysville. Nicole Stanley with Charles in Homer. Carla Wilbanks alongside Johnathan in Lula. Jeanny poured her love into them every day, guiding and cherishing each one.
The grandchildren brought her endless joy. Granddaughters Amber Worley with Tyler, Beth Worley, Jacqueline Whisinant and Brayden, Gyna Tullis with Timmy, and Becca Wilbanks. Grandsons Joshua Whisinant, and Colton and Cohen Wilbanks. Then there were the seven great-grandchildren, lighting up her days with their laughter and energy. She treasured every moment with them.
Jeanny’s family circle also included her mother, Mrs. Inez Smith, and her brothers Michael Smith with Joann, and Phil Smith with Joann. She was preceded in death by her father.
Friends and family are gathering to remember her. Visitation is today, Monday, January 12, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Memorial Park Road in Gainesville. The funeral service will be tomorrow, Tuesday, January 13, at 2:00 PM in the chapel there. Reverend Allen Passmore, Reverend Terry Sosebee, and Reverend Dexter Gravitt will officiate. Interment will follow at Mercy Baptist Church Cemetery.
Jeanny’s life was about love, family, and quiet strength. She leaves behind a legacy that will live on in her husband, children, grandchildren, and everyone who knew her gentle spirit.