Helen B. Prunty, a cherished soul and beacon of resilience, left us on April 2, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, courage, and unwavering spirit. Born on February 18, 1938, in Craighead County near Jonesboro, Arkansas, to Andrew and Elnora Jones, Helen's journey was marked by both the trials of her time and the triumphs of her indomitable will.

In 1956, Helen embarked on a transformative chapter of her life as part of the Great Migration North. Like many Black Southerners, she sought refuge from the racial violence and systemic injustices of the South, finding new beginnings in Rockford. Her move was not just a quest for economic opportunities and freedom but a testament to her strength and determination to forge a better future for herself and her family.

Helen's life was a rich tapestry of roles - a loving sister, a treasured friend, a committed volunteer, and above all, a remarkable mother. Her resilience in the face of adversity, coupled with her sweet spirit, left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Helen's professional life was marked by over 25 years of dedicated service as a machine operator at Ingersoll Cutting Tool, a testament to her hard work and dedication.

A woman of faith, Helen was a former member of Bethel Baptist Church, where she served on the nurses guild, and later found spiritual solace at Christ the Carpenter United Methodist Church. Her hobbies and interests - from playing marbles and fishing to sewing, gardening, and enjoying cooking shows - reflected the joy she found in life's simple pleasures.

Helen's legacy is carried on by her beloved family: her daughters, Belinda Caryl Prunty and Aprel Prunty; her son, Robert (Romona) Prunty; seven grandchildren, Robert Jr., Raymon, and Ricky Prunty, Ruby Prunty-Del Rio, Shelreese Prunty-Elieh, Tanasha Prunty, and special granddaughter, Ashley Prunty; 12 great-grandchildren; four brothers, Joe Ricks, Cleophas Tell, Nathaniel (Mary) Tell, and James Clifton Watkins; two sisters, Areatha Anthony and Zelner Gladney; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She was predeceased by her parents; beloved son, Kevin Douglas Prunty; four sisters, Ollie Mae Ricks, Thelma Jones, Margaret Jones, and Peggy Watkins; three brothers, Andrew Jones Jr., Brett Tell, and Ernest Tell.

We bid farewell to Helen, a pillar of strength and love, as she is laid to rest. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions to the African American Resource Center at Booker, an organization close to Helen's heart, to honor her legacy of giving and community support.

Visitation and service details remind us of the opportunity to gather, remember, and celebrate Helen's remarkable life: Visitation will be on Friday, April 12, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., with services to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home. Helen will be laid to rest at Cedar Bluff Cemetery, where her spirit will rest among the family members she so loved.

Helen B. Prunty's journey on this earth has ended, but her light continues to shine brightly in the hearts of those she leaves behind. We honor her memory, her contributions to our lives and communities, and the profound love she shared with so many. Rest in peace, dear Helen. Your legacy will forever inspire and guide us.