Helen Louise Westall Fender, age 93, of Burnsville, North Carolina, went home to be with Jesus on Friday, February 6, 2026.
Helen was born on July 29, 1932, in Yancey County, North Carolina, to the late Vincent Westall and Martha Louise Smith Westall. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Benny Fender, and her cherished daughter, Mary Beth Fender.
Helen devoted her professional life to nursing, serving as a Registered Nurse with unwavering commitment. She was known for her high standards, firm expectations, and no-nonsense approach. Her care was marked by discipline, strength, and a heart that demanded the best for those she served, even when it came wrapped in tough love. Beneath her formidable exterior was a woman who cared fiercely and loved deeply.
The greatest joy of Helen’s has been her family, and nothing filled her heart more than having the people she loved gathered close around her.
Helen also had a deep, tender love for her animals, whom she affectionately called “the babies.” They were a constant source of comfort and companionship, and caring for them brought her great joy throughout her life.
She is survived by her daughter, Martha Huskins, and husband, Roger; her son, Chris Fender, and wife, Sherri; and five grandchildren: Jessica (Dan), Cody, Tara (Daniel), Jessie (Josh), and Ashlynn. She also leaves behind five great-grandchildren, Lyla, Gabe, Wiley, Seeley, and Scarlett, who brought her immense pride and joy.
The family would also like to recognize and thank her devoted caretakers, Alanna, Stacey, Kim, and Lexie, whose compassion and kindness provided Helen with comfort, dignity, and companionship during her later years.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 9, 2026. The family will receive friends and loved ones from 5:00 until 6:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 6:00 p.m. Interment will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 11:00 am in the Proffitt Cemetery. Officiating is Pastors Kent Smith and Josh Laws. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Care Partners and Medi Home Hospice for the compassionate care shown to Helen and her family during this time.
Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home is respectfully serving the Fender family.