Helen Louise Adams

Helen Louise Lancaster Adams, more commonly known as Mer, was born on October 23, 1931 and died November 15, 2022 at the age of 91.

Mer was born to Virgie E and Arthur L. Lancaster. Virgie died on November 1, 1931 when Mer was 8 days old. Her father had 2 small boys under the age of 2 and could not care for an infant. Mer stayed with her grandmother Sally Tennessee “Tennie” Key House who was a recent widow.

Mer played forward in basketball at Sheridan High School. She was also a football cheerleader. Mer played clarinet in the high school band. She graduated high school in 1949 and then moved to Hazen to take a job with the town doctor. She helped deliver many babies during her time as a nurse.

Mer always wanted to go to college and she made that dream a reality at the age of 65. She started college at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro graduating 4 years later with a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW). Mer got her master’s degree in social work (MSW) the following year. She entered the workforce at the age most people were enjoying retirement. Mer enjoyed her work and did not retire until she was 80 years old.

She loved to watch sports on TV or if lucky in person. Mer loved her Razorback basketball, football and baseball. She always made sure to root for her team and many times when scores were close she would leave the room, but peek around the corner to make sure her hogs were doing their best.

Mer loved to play cards, particularly Bridge. She could and would play anytime, anywhere there was a bridge game.

Mer is survived by her 3 children, Cheryl Vickers of Carlisle, AR; Cindy Eagle (David) of Jonesboro, and Everett Justus Adams Jr. “Chip” (Sharon) of Hazen; her grandchildren, Melanie Streetman (Tony) of Benton, LA, Matthew Hecke (Stephanie) of Prosper, TX, Amanda Garner (Heath) of Jonesboro, Adam Steuart (Jordan) of Jonesboro, Justus Adams of Hazen and Jacob Adams (Maggie) of Benton, 21 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren.

All services are private.