Helen Doris Hollis Wright

Helen Doris Hollis Wright, a cherished soul whose presence graced this world for over a century, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026, at the age of 107. Born in the quaint town of Northfield, Minnesota, on February 18, 1919, Helen was the beloved daughter of Rienz Hollis and Mable Eighmey Hollis. Helen's life was a tapestry woven with love, education, and dedication. She embarked on her educational journey at the Orange Consolidated School, graduating in 1937, and continued to nurture her passion for teaching at Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls. She later achieved her Bachelor of Science degree from Drake University, solidifying her commitment to the educational field. Her career as an educator began at the Ferguson Consolidated School, where she taught fourth and fifth grades. Her teaching journey continued in Traer, Iowa, and later at the Marshalltown School. Helen found her true calling at the West Des Moines Schools, where she imparted knowledge and wisdom at Phenix School. Despite her brief tenure as an acting principal, her heart belonged in the classroom, surrounded by the students she adored. In the summer of 1944, while working for the Dupont Company in Yakima, Washington, Helen met the love of her life, Charles Wright. Their love story, marked by dedication and mutual respect, culminated in their marriage on October 7, 1944. They shared a remarkable 67 years together, filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. Helen was a devoted member of the West Des Moines Christian Church and found spiritual fulfillment in several congregations throughout her life, including the South Waterloo Church of the Brethren and Grace Baptist in Georgia. Her life was enriched by a plethora of hobbies and interests. Helen was a creative soul, finding joy in reading, sewing, knitting, crocheting, and crafts. She and Charles shared a love for bowling, square dancing, and camping, often traveling across the United States in their fifth-wheel trailer. Her social calendar was filled with gatherings of retired teachers, coffee chats, and craft days at church, where her "Earth Angels" ensured her well-being as her eyesight and hearing waned. Helen was predeceased by her loving parents, Rienz and Mable Hollis; her devoted husband, Charles Wright; her brothers, Keith and Gordon Hollis; her sisters, Margaret Bolleni and Jean Sapp; her niece, Amy Knapp; and her great-nephew, Matthew Knapp. She leaves behind a legacy of love embodied by her five nieces, three nephews, six great-nephews, seven great-nieces, twelve great-great nieces, five great-great-great nieces, and one great-great-great nephew. A celebration of Helen's remarkable life will be held at the West Des Moines Christian Church, located at 4501 Mills Civic Pkwy, West Des Moines, IA 50265. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in her memory to an organization of your choice, reflecting the spirit of generosity and kindness that Helen embodied throughout her life. Helen Doris Hollis Wright's life was a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the joy found in each day. Her quick wit, warm smile, and unwavering kindness touched the hearts of all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will forever illuminate the paths of those she leaves behind.