Helen "Marie" Slaughter Malone, age 77, of Amarillo, Texas, was born on June 13, 1948, in Fort Worth, Texas. She was the beloved daughter of Charlie and Augusta Malone.

Helen spent most of her life in Amarillo, where she attended Amarillo Public Schools and built a life rooted in love, hard work, and family. In 1985, she married Gaston Benard and together they raised and spoiled their cherished daughter, Erica Flanagan (Dancer). Helen found immense joy in her role as a mother and grandmother. Affectionately known as "Granny" by her grandson, Devin Dancer, the two shared a special bond over their mutual love for football.

Professionally, Helen dedicated 30 years of service to Bivins Memorial Nursing Home as Housekeeping Manager. She left behind a legacy of dedication and consistency. In retirement, she worked for Ricky's Cleaning Service, LLC. In this role, she performed with a high level of commitment and care. When she tried to stop working, her level of service was unmatched, and she would be requested to return to the job.

Outside of work, Helen was known for her warm spirit, love of cooking, fierce spades game, and unwavering support of the Pittsburgh Steelers. She enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—watching sports, vibing to her favorite tunes, and proving that joy did not require a crowd. She shared countless adventures and memories with her best friend of 57 years, Syble Evans —many of which they fondly described as times when they used to "hit it."

Helen's strength and resilience were evident throughout her life, especially in her health journey. She triumphed over her first battle with lung cancer in 2012 and bravely faced its return in late 2021, continuing to fight with grace and dignity until her passing.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Carrye Tropez and Charlie Turner, and brothers Charles Malone and Billy Malone.

She leaves to cherish her life and legacy: her devoted daughter Erica Dancer; beloved grandson Devin Dancer; siblings Thomas Malone (Shirley), Linda Kemp (Terry), Sandra Reasonover, and Ricky Malone (Vanessa); best friend Syble Evans; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who will deeply miss her strength, cooking and love.