Helen Maxwell

Helen Louise (McDaniel) Jarrett Maxwell, 96, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026 with her daughter, Brenda, by her side. During the week she was at home under hospice care, each of her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren visited her, surrounding her with Love and giving her the comfort of family in her final days.

Born on October 28, 1929, Helen grew up as a McDaniel and carried that family's strength and spirit throughout her life. She married Ocie Lee Jarrett and spent 19 years as Helen Jarrett, raising her two children and building the foundation of the family with Ocie. Later in life, she remarried and became Helen Maxwell.

Helen lived a life defined by love for her family, for her home in the Ozarks, after leaving Rochelle, Illinois at retirement from Swift & Co. meat packing industry. The simple, steady routines and nature of the Ozarks brought her comfort. She was a loyal sister and a woman whose kind and generous presence made all feel welcome and safe.

Helen is survived by her daughter, Brenda (Greg), and her sister, Joyce McDermott. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy through the family of her late son, Ronald Lee (Ronnie); grandchildren, Matthew Jarrett (Shanna) and Tracey Jarrett Witherspoon; great-grands: Jaime Jarrett (Randi), Cole Jordan, and Avarie Jarrett; and great-great-grands: Hunter Lee, Stella Louise, and Grayson Lee.

Helen also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who adored and loved her dearly and will remember her warmth, humor, and gentle spirit.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Giula and Vernie McDaniel; her sister, Willie Jo Webb; all three brothers: Billy McDaniel, John McDaniel, and Vernie McDaniel; and only son, Ronald Lee Jarrett.

Honoring her wishes, she was cremated. A celebration of her life and family reunion will take place at a later date.