Helen L. Birdwell

Helen L. Birdwell passed away peacefully Monday, January 13, 2014 at Carlsbad Medical Center. She was 109 years of age. A Graveside service is scheduled for Wednesday, January 15, 2014, 2:30 PM, at Sunset Gardens Memorial Park with Chaplain Terry McKean, officiating. Denton-Wood Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Helen L. Birdwell was born April 5, 1904 in Garner, Iowa to Herman and Mayme Wetterling and grew up on a farm. She met James Birdwell in Chicago, Illinois and they married August 13, 1927. They had an infant daughter born in February 1931 who died shortly after birth and had no other children. They worked in several states and later owned and operated a hotel in Bisbee, Arizona. They later moved to Carlsbad. Mr. Birdwell passed away in July 1985. Mr. Birdwell was survived by a daughter Murlene Hall and her three daughters. Even though they were from her husband's prior marriage, she considered them her granddaughters. Helen lived in a mobile home parked on the river near the Bataan Bridge for many years and she loved her flowers and planting tomatoes. Helen was a member of Sunset Church of Christ. In August 2004 at 100 years old, she moved into Lakeview Christian Home and enjoyed the activities there. She is survived by her granddaughters: Leeta Riley of Arp, TX, Inelda Proctor of Blossom, TX and Lomita Cooper of Avery, TX. Memorial contributions may be made to Lakeview Christian Home, 1905 West Pierce Street, Carlsbad, NM 88220 or Noah's Ark, 5217 Buena Vista, Carlsbad, NM 88220. Condolences may be expressed at dentonwood.com.