Helen Fennel, 93, of Amarillo, Texas, passed away on Feb. 2, 2025. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025, at Bolton Street Baptist Church, 2555 S. Bolton St., Amarillo, TX 79103.
She was born and raised in Hollis, Okla. and graduated from Ron High School in 1948. In 1951, Helen married C.W. Fennel, and together, they shared 43 wonderful years of marriage, until C.W. passed in 1994. A talented seamstress, Helen owned and operated Helen’s Unique Alterations for many years, where she was known for her exceptional skill. She lovingly crafted wedding gowns for her daughter and two granddaughters, a testament to her craft. Helen also found joy in quilting and crocheting, creating beautiful blankets that she often gifted to those she loved.
An avid reader, Helen especially enjoyed fiction and romance novels. She was a passionate sports fan, cheering loudly for the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers, much to the amusement of her family. Helen had a deep appreciation for the color purple and the delicate beauty of butterflies, both of which reflected her vibrant spirit.
Helen spent 21 years at Country Estates, where she formed cherished friendships. She loved playing Dimes and Dominoes with her dear friends and participating in potluck gatherings at the community center. Her children and grandchildren will forever remember the “mom look” she gave when they were in trouble—a look that was always both loving and firm.
Never one to forget a special occasion, Helen made sure every birthday was marked with a thoughtful card. Christmas was her favorite time of year, and she delighted in making personalized stockings for her family, creating lasting memories of joyful holiday celebrations at Memaw’s house.
Above all, Helen was a devoted woman of faith, living a life of service to the Lord. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith and cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of her family.
Helen was preceded in death by her parents, J.P. Moldenhauer and Mary Boggs; her husband, CW Fennel; her brothers, Gorden Pringle and Gube Moldenhauer; her sister, Clara Mae Jewett; and her two great-grandsons, Aaron Green and Bryce Burkett.
Survivors left to cherish her memory are her children, David Fennel and wife Susan, of Amarillo, and Debby Burkett and husband Randy, of Amarillo; her five grandchildren, Rene Green and husband Huey, of Amarillo, Jon David Fennel and wife Cynthia, of Amarillo, Aimee Belote and husband Danny, of Amarillo, Beau Burkett and wife Lauren, of Austin, Texas, and Shelby Tavern and husband Matt, of Amarillo; her 14 great-grandchildren and 14 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of other extended family members and friends who will all miss her greatly.
