Helen Elizabeth McAdams, 86, a beloved wife, mother, mamaw, and faithful servant of God passed away on May 22, 2026. She was born in Houston to Charles and Helen Shenton in 1939, the eldest of three daughters. Helen graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School in 1957 where she was a member of the Honor Society and the Scottish Brigade Drill Team.  While in college, she belonged to the Phi Mu sorority and graduated cum laude from the University of Houston with a BBA in 1961.

Helen met James McAdams when he moved into a home across the street where it was love at first sight.  Married in 1962, she became the proud mother of four children and mamaw to many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and countless others who lovingly considered her family over the next 64 years.  Building her life on faith, family, and unconditional love, her home was always filled with warmth and laughter. She found great joy in preparing meals, baking sweet treats, and bringing loved ones together around the table.

She had a passion for crafting and selling beautiful décor that brought happiness to so many. Her creativity and caring spirit could be seen in every piece she made. Helen also enjoyed shopping for just the right toys and gadgets for her grandchildren and great grandchildren all year round.

Faith was the cornerstone of her life.  As an original member of Sagemont Church, Helen faithfully served in the preschool ministry for over 30 years, touching generations of children and families with her kindness, patience, and love for the Lord. Her gentle spirit and servant's heart left a lasting impact on everyone blessed to know her.

In retirement, Helen and James traveled often to attend the annual Southern Gospel Quartet convention.  They also enjoyed spending time in James' childhood home in Lisbon, Louisiana.

Helen is preceded in death by her sister MaryAnn Shenton.

She is survived by her loving husband James McAdams of Houston, Texas, her son Keith (Rachel) McAdams of Miami Shores, Florida, her daughter Karen (John) Teel of Houston, Texas, her son Kenneth (Diane) of Houston, Texas, and her daughter Kathy (Michael) Casteel of League City, Texas.  Helen is survived by her grandchildren Lauren (Michael) Urbanowich, Kristen (Jonathan) Williams, Aidan McAdams, Ryan Casteel, and Abby Casteel.  She is survived by her great grandchildren Kaitlyn Urbanowich and John Urbanowich.  Helen is also survived by her sister Barbara Shenton of Anchorage, Alaska.

The service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, June 4, at Peevey Funeral Home, 12440 Beamer Road, Houston, TX 77089 with visitation at 10:00 am.  Interment will follow the service at Forest Park East Cemetery, 21620 Gulf Fwy, Webster, TX 77598.

"Her children arise up and call her blessed"- Proverbs 31:28