In Remembrance Of
Helen Barrows
Helen Ruth Barrows, 93, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and the memories of a life well lived.
Helen was born on November 20, 1932, in Alton, Illinois, to Riley Buster Bruce and Pauline White (Hendrick) Bruce. She was raised in Cottage Hills, Illinois, and graduated from Civic Memorial High School. The values she learned during her upbringing—kindness, resilience, and devotion to family—remained with her throughout her life.
Helen married Maurice Ervin Barrows, and together they had three children: Kenneth, Joni, and Wayne. Family was always at the center of Helen’s world, and she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to those she loved.
A devoted Kansas City Royals fan, Helen found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved dancing, cherished visiting the Country Club Plaza during the Christmas season and enjoyed the comfort of being at home surrounded by family. Known for her generous spirit and caring heart, Helen was always willing to give of herself and lend support to those around her. Above all else, she treasured the time she spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating countless memories that will be cherished for generations.
Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Riley and Pauline Bruce; her brothers, Dale Bruce and Paul Bruce; and her sisters, Georgia Lowe, Audrey Barrows, and Ann Hatten.
She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory, including her children, Kenneth Barrows, Joni McGuire, and Wayne Barrows; her grandchildren, Kadee, Kenneth, Keith, Mitchell, Nathan, and Jodi, and her beloved great-grandchildren, Alexis, Nolan, Skylar, Haven, Micheal, Lacy, Conner, Zoey, and Reagan. She is also survived by her brother, Ronnie Bruce, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Helen’s legacy is one of love, generosity, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Visitation will be from 1:00-2:00 p.m. with Funeral Services at 2:00 p.m. Monday, June 22nd at Hixson-Klein Funeral Home in Smithville, MO.
Burial will be at Paradise Cemetery, Smithville, MO.
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Service Details
Paradise Cemetery, Smithville, MO.
1:00-2:00 p.m. Monday, June 22nd at Hixson-Klein Funeral Home in Smithville, MO.
2:00 p.m. Monday, June 22nd at Hixson-Klein Funeral Home in Smithville, MO.
Comments & condolences
1 comment
LaDonna Giffin
Helen was such a sweet lady. I enjoyed my time with her. She always had a smile on her face. She loved trying on my glasses toppers. At Christmas I got her Christmas tree glasses, which she a a ball with. I will never forget how kind she was. I will miss her so much.