Helen Lois Thacker, age 84, of Russell Springs, died Sunday, June 25, 2017 at the Scott County Hospital, Scott City.  She was born on February 9, 1933 in Oakley, to Clarence R. "Blue" Mastin and Velma H. (Cook) Mastin. Helen attended all twelve years of school in Russell Springs, Kansas, graduating from Russell Springs High School in 1950.

On August 6, 1950, Helen and Keith Eugene Thacker (Gene or Bushel) were married by the Baptist minister in Weskan, Kansas. They lived in Leoti until April 1951 when they moved to Russell Springs to help Helen's dad with the family farming. They had one daughter, Linda, and a son, Larry. Helen was generous, caring, and loved children. She was a devoted grandmother who enjoyed having her grand kids spend time with her as well as being a faithful supporter at their many activities. Helen was also a charter member of the Butterfield Historical Association.

Helen was preceded in death by her father Blue (1995), her mother Velma (2002), her husband Gene (2002), and her son-in-law Jerry Ayers (2003). Survivors include her daughter Linda Ayers of Page City; son Larry Thacker of Russell Springs; grandson Kevin and wife Jill Ayers along with their two daughters, Leah and Maura of Sharon Springs; granddaughter Tricia and husband Matt Jaeger along with their daughter Logan and sons Levi and Brett of Minneola; and grandson Brett and wife Paige Ayers of Russell Springs.

Funeral Service:  10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 28, 2017 at the United Methodist Church, Winona, with Rev. Paul McNall officiating. Burial will follow in the Russell Springs Cemetery.  There will be no visitation.  Casket will remain closed.  Memorials to the Butterfield Trail Historical Association in care of Kennedy-Koster Funeral Home, P.O. Box 221, Oakley  67748.

Online Guestbook: www.kennedykosterfh.com