Helen Allenbaugh Fones died of natural causes on July 6, 2026. She was born in Baltimore, Maryland on February 28, 1930 to Joseph “Joe” and May Allenbaugh. Helen was preceded in death by her husband Ralston “Ronnie” Fones, by her sister Mary Evelyn “Evie” Preecs, and by her daughter Christine “Chris” Byers.

Helen was the heart and soul of the Fones family and she served as a role model for her daughters and her grandchildren. She had four daughters and she ensured that every one of them went to college. Her children and grandchildren hold degrees in medicine, social work, chemistry, education, and engineering and law. Helen graduated summa cum laude from high school but was not able to go to college right away. Helen attended the University of Maryland while her youngest daughter attended the same college.

Helen worked at NASA and the Central Intelligence Agency. After retirement, she enjoyed line dancing with her friends, traveling, and keeping up with her grandchildren.

Married at ages 18 and 17 respectively, Helen and Ron celebrated 73 years together. They had four daughters, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Helen was the force that taught her four daughters to be strong women, to get an education, and stand up for their values. Helen’s influence is felt by the family through future generations.