Helen Doris Burkes

Helen Doris Burkes was born on August 21, 1934 in Simonton, Texas to Willie B. and Mary Lee Sampson. She was the second oldest of five siblings; Valerie, Polly, Anita and Luida. She was known by many names - Helen, Dee, Dee-Dee, Dois, H.D, Mommy, Mom, Honey and Aunt Dee. In 1962, Helen Doris set out with her two children, Baby Lynn and Baby Rick to Seattle, Washington where her older sister Valerie and family lived. She was a member of Greater Mount Baker church for many years where she enjoyed singing in the choir. She very much enjoyed hosting family gatherings, playing bingo, gardening and of course cooking soul food. Her specialties were fried chicken and butter pound cakes with the homemade lemon glaze. In 2000, she retired from the City of Seattle. After retirement she enjoyed cooking for and spending time with her granddaughter, Taejah Williams. She became fond of dolphin figurines and started her collection. Her favorite colors were red and black and in retirement lavender also became a favorite. On October 28, 2017, Helen Doris Burkes passed away in Burien, Washington. She is survived by her two sisters - Polly and Luida; her children - Lynn Reed, Willie Reed and Tyfani Burkes; grandchildren and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews. Mom loved her family dearly and will truly be missed. “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.” -Psalm 23