Grandma Helen was a cherished member of our community who spent a lifetime nurturing these gardens with her tender care.

Grandma Helen, known for her unwavering dedication to our park, was a frequent visitor who found joy and solace among the roses she so lovingly tended. Her commitment as a volunteer was not just to the flora but to the very spirit of this place, making it a haven of beauty and tranquility. She always reminded us to take a moment in our busy lives to stop and smell the roses, embodying a philosophy of appreciating the simple, natural joys around us.

This garden reminds her of her love for nature and its lasting impact on our community, ensuring that her legacy continues to bloom in every petal and leaf.

Daughter to Eugene and Edna Simmons, Helen was born and raised in Arlington, Virginia, where she lived most of her life.

She is pictured here with her mother, Edna, at her childhood home in 1938.

Helen had fond memories of growing up in Arlington. She remembers going to Virginia Beach with her cousins on hot summer days and other fun-filled adventures as a young girl. Helen (center) and her brother, Arnold, and sister, Shirley, celebrate the Fourth of July.

As one of four children, Helen's household was always busy. Her mother took a part-time retail job to provide extra spending money for the children. Growing up with modest means, Helen gave her sister her best hand-me-downs.

The spirit of modesty and giving never left Helen. She often donated her possessions to Volunteers of America to ensure the profits went to veterans' groups.

Helen met Stuart Quincy Smith at the age of 17. The two fell in love and became high school sweethearts.

Stuart proposed to her on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall. She and her husband loved to travel and visit the national parks in the summers.

Growing up near the Washington, DC, area, Helen loved history and sharing stories with her family.

This photo was taken of Helen with her son and grandchild at the FDR memorial.

Helen and Stuart got married in 1956.

"We vowed to always love each other, hand in hand together forever." – Stu

Helen and her family in front of their home in Arlington, just two blocks from where Helen grew up.

"We had many great times here, from birthday parties to Friday night meatloaf dinners," -Tim.

Helen's passion for Arlington extended to her time as a volunteer at the local nonprofit, always eager to serve the community she loved.

Timmy and Sophia were born on March 6, 1959. The twins brought joy to Helen and Stu's life – and a little chaos too.

Grandma Helen's chocolate chip cookie recipe is legendary in the family and beyond. With a secret touch that combines love and expertise, her cookies are a fan favorite at family gatherings. Each bite is a testament to Grandma's culinary touch and the warmth she infuses into every creation.

Always generous, Helen enjoyed making cookies for new families moving into the neighborhood.

Seeing Sophia and Tim graduate from college was one of the greatest joys of Helen's life.

Helen and Stu became grandparents with the birth of Baby Jack, the first of five grandchildren to bless their lives.

Becoming a Grandma was the greatest gift of Helen's life. She said they made her feel young again.

Helen put her love of cooking into helping to feed those in need. She volunteered at her local food bank for many years, making delicious meals and lifelong friends!

Helen was a kind and generous person who believed in giving back. She also supported non-profit organizations like Feeding America, which works to end hunger in the United States.

A cherished wife, devoted mother, loving grandmother, and friend to many, Helen's legacy will live on for generations to come.