Helen (Leavell) Pinion Simpson age 86 of Purcell passed away on Saturday, May 14, 2016 after a brief illness. She was born on January 6, 1930 in Moreland, Arkansas. She was the 3rd child of four children born to Euel Virgil “Cap” Leavell and Chole Tilda (Duvall) Leavell. Helen grew up in Moreland, Arkansas where she also attended school. As a farm girl she learned how to work hard chopped cotton, picked cotton, picked fruit and pecans to help support her family. She married Dale Pinion on November 5, 1945 and together they had four sons, Jack, Mitchel, Loyd and Don. Helen later moved to Purcell, OK and married Edward Simpson. They were married on October 30, 1964 in Purcell. While her children were growing up, Helen worked at home as a mother, and outside of the home doing various jobs. After moving to Oklahoma she began working for the phone company in Prague. She was later transferred to Purcell and promoted to Evening Chief Operator. Her job later moved her to Sherman, Texas where she retired. After retiring she and Ed moved back to Purcell to be close to her children and grandchildren. Over the years, Helen and Ed enjoyed dancing together and traveling. She also enjoyed going to garage sales, reading, taking walks and baking, especially baking fresh bread. Helen was a Christian and loved attended Sunday school at the First Baptist Church in Purcell. She will be remembered as a wonderful mother and grandmother.

She was preceded in death by: Husband, Ed Simpson; Son, Don Pinion; Two sisters, Marie Foster and Bobbie Foster; One brother, Joe Leavell;

She is survived by: Three sons, Jack Pinion and wife Camille of Norman, Mitchel Pinion and wife April of Elgin, Loyd Pinion and wife Grace of Shawnee; Five grandchildren, seven great grandchildren and one great-great grandson. Also numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Assoc., the Purcell First Baptist Church, or the charity of the donor’s choice.

Funeral services ~ Wednesday, May 18. 2016 at Wilson-Little Funeral Home Chapel in Purcell. Interment was at the Lexington Cemetery.