Helen Irene Ogden Smith

Helen Irene Ogden Smith (79) returned home to her loving Heavenly Father early Tuesday, September 3, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s, which robbed her of her ability to read, write, and speak.

Helen was born February 7, 1945, to Edward LeRoy (Roy) and Irene Ogden. She was the fourth of five kids. Her pale blonde hair earned her the nickname “Snow White”. She grew up in Eden, Utah, graduated from Weber High School, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Weber State College. Helen married Paul Smith on April 10, 1974 and she and Paul later were sealed in the Ogden Utah Temple on August 8, 1975.

Helen taught first grade in Ogden School District until she married Paul. Helen temporarily gave up teaching in order to raise her family. Paul and Helen moved to Sandy, Utah, where they raised five children, collectively known as the “K Kids”. Helen taught her kids to be compassionate and to stand up for others. She loved unconditionally and accepted everyone exactly as they were. Helen resumed her teaching career in 1987 after her children were all attending school. Helen taught second grade for the remainder of her career.

Helen became a stay-at-home Grandma after her retirement. She had a special relationship with all nine of her grandchildren. She loved to host them for sleepovers, playdates, and regular trips to the aquarium, where a stuffed animal from the gift shop always managed to find its way home. She loved to attend and never missed their school events – especially the Halloween parades.

Helen loved planting flowers and watching hummingbirds visit the feeders she hung outside. She also loved to read and read voraciously until she began to lose her vision, at which time she transitioned to letting others read to her. She especially loved to be read to by her grandkids.

Helen kept a positive attitude and although frustrated at times, never complained or felt pity for herself and the horrible challenges she had to endure. Helen always put others first. There is a Helen-shaped hole in the world that can never be filled. The impact she had on the lives of the people who knew her will be felt for generations.

Survived by her husband: Paul; children: Kemi (Kenny), Kevin (Rhonda), Konnon, Kristi, and Kelli; grandkids: Alex, Kendra (Jake), Hannah, Amanda, Abbie, Sam, Natalie, Felicity, and Elsie; sister: Bette; and brother: Jesse; and her beloved Chihuahuas: Ella and Millie; and Husky: Naga.

Preceded in death by her parents: Roy and Irene; brother: Eddie; and sister: Verna.

A viewing will be held on Monday, September 9, from 6:00-8:00 PM. There will also be a private viewing for extended family on September 10, from 10:00-10:45 AM. Funeral services will begin September 10, 2024 at 11:00 AM. All services and interment will take place at Larkin Sunset Gardens, located at 1950 E. 10600 S., in Sandy.

The family would like to thank Sasa, Drea, Danielle, Stefanie, Jessica, the rest of the Dignity staff, and the Escalante staff for the loving care they provided for Helen. She adored all of you.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to an animal shelter or neighborhood school of your choice.