Hellen Ruth Myricks

In Loving Memory of Hellen Ruth Myricks May 27, 1942 – August 15, 2025 Hellen Ruth Myricks, 83, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on May 27, 1942, in Carthage, Mississippi, Hellen was the daughter of Robert and Velma Myricks. She attended Conway High School in Mississippi and graduated with the class of 1960. Shortly after, she relocated to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she met and married Richard Witherspoon Jr. Together, they welcomed two children, Rickie Witherspoon and Colette Gordon. She later moved to Georgia in 1987 with her daughter, Colette, where she built a new chapter of life rooted in family and resilience. Hellen was the kindest, most forgiving soul one could encounter, always seeing the best in others and offering encouragement with her favorite words: “You can do anything you wanna do if you just put yo mind to it.” She gave wise advice on navigating life, was a wonderful listener, and could be turned to about anything without fear of judgment. She nurtured her family with boundless love, helped raise her grandchildren, and was considered a second mother to them. She carried that same spirit into her work. Hellen took pride in defying expectations, building a career as a bus driver for Milwaukee County Transit and Greyhound Bus Lines at a time when few women held such roles. She earned the respect of colleagues and passengers alike for her dedication and grit, qualities that reflected the same care and perseverance she showed her family. Known for her generosity and warmth, Hellen had a joyful spirit that drew her to simple pleasures: listening to old-school music, traveling to Las Vegas casinos, gardening, golfing in her younger years, and sewing. She was a phenomenal cook whose pound cake, banana pudding, and lady finger cookies were family treasures. She was happiest in the company of her loved ones — staying up all night watching Disney movies, comforting the children through the little ups and downs of growing up, or, even in her hospital bed, making sure her family felt loved and beautiful by asking them to gather for a photo together. Her love showed in countless ways, big and small. She was a steady nighttime companion, often lying beside her grandchildren until they fell asleep, a nightly reminder of her constant presence and care. She had a playful side too, always ready to return a silly face or share a laugh, and a protective streak that made her fearless, whether killing a snake in the yard, swatting away bugs with her cane, or gently giving a beloved pet a proper burial. She never met a stranger, striking up conversations with anyone she encountered. Hellen is survived by her children Rickie Witherspoon and Colette Gordon (Shawn Gordon); her step-son Thurman Witherspoon; her grandchildren Chaz Locke, Cabri Gordon, Caycee Gordon, Caylen Gordon, Rickie Witherspoon, Amber Witherspoon; her great-grandchildren Ryan Witherspoon and Ceddie Witherspoon; her brother Randy Myricks; her nephew Sonny Myricks; her nieces Terri Gulley, Kimberly Myricks, Terri King, and Rebecca Myricks; and close family and friends Linda Witherspoon, Renaee Howard, Sherry Dunn, and Robyn Butler. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Velma Myricks; siblings Paul, Dean, and Coleman; her sister-in-law Mona Myricks; her niece Deann Braggs; her nephew Randy Myricks; and her nieces Nessie Myricks and Gloria Myricks. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, from 1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M., followed by a service at 2:00 P.M. at Wisconsin Memorial Park, 13235 W Capitol Dr., Brookfield, WI 53005. Hellen’s life was defined by unconditional love, kindness, and a deep devotion to her family. Her legacy endures in the laughter she inspired, the lessons she taught, and the unwavering care she gave to all who knew her.

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Hellen Ruth Myricks

May 27, 1942 - August 15, 2025