Helen Ruth Hobbs

Helen Ruth Hyden Hobbs, age 78, of Jonesville, VA, passed away peacefully in Middlesboro, KY, in the care of her daughter-in-law, Gena, on Thursday, November 6, 2025. She was born September 29, 1947, the cherished daughter of the late Bascom and Fannie (Ely) Hyden.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her great niece, Hallie Elizabeth Hobbs.

Helen’s legacy is marked by her dedication to education and community service. From a young age, she possessed a passion for reading. She was a proud graduate of Jonesville High School in 1965; she furthered her studies at Radford University. She made waves in her early career as the first Headstart teacher at Blackwater, VA, nurturing the minds of young children. Her pursuit of knowledge did not stop there; Helen took classes at night and transitioned into a role as a computer programmer, working for IBM across Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana.

After moving back to Lee County, she became involved in helping the Methodist Church with community meals and feeding the youth. She showed her love for animals through her active participation in the Animal League. Helen was also known for her green thumb, frequently sharing her garden's abundance with others.

She is loved, and will be missed by her two sons, Shelton Hobbs and his wife Karen, and Bryan Fritts and his wife Gena; her granddaughter, Laila Fritts; her sister, Judy Hobbs and husband Elton and their sons, William and Josh and his wife Amber.

The family extends a special thank you to Gena for being her devoted caregiver over the past year.

In accordance with Helen’s wishes, there will be no services held. The family welcomes online condolences and messages in memory of Helen through the online register book available at www.cawoodfh.com.

Helen’s spirit will surely live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

All arrangements for Helen Ruth Hobbs are under the care of Cawood Funeral Home, Middlesboro, KY.