Helen Graven, 86, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026. Born on February 12, 1940, she was a devoted mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend who touched the lives of many with her kindness and love. 

Helen graduated from Cisco Junio College with associate degrees in Computer Science and Human Services and McMurry University with a bachelor's degree in Sociology, which laid the foundation for her impactful career as a case worker and counselor. She dedicated herself to helping others through her work at the Abilene Regional Mental Health & Mental Retardation Center from 1992 to 1995, as a counselor at Westview Boys Home from 1990 to 1991, and volunteer work with the Suicide Prevention and Crisis Hotlines and Meals on Wheels. Her compassion and dedication left a lasting impression on those she served. 

A woman of faith, Helen was a member of the Hillcrest Church of Christ in Abilene. She found joy in reading, sewing, painting, creating flower arrangements, and crafting ceramics-hobbies that reflected her creativity and gentle spirit. 

Helen is survived by her daughter Judy Graven of Abilene, her son Richard Graven of Seattle, Washington; her grandchildren Robert Mathew Graven and wife Jodi of Clyde, Britni (Graven) Brown of Hamby, William Windham and wife Tosha of Clyde, Nancie Windham of Rotan, and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Harlan C. Graven, Jr.; her son Robert C. Graven; her parents Cecil and Ruby (Johnson) Taylor; her brothers Larry Taylor and Lesley Taylor; and her sisters Margaret (Taylor) Gibson, Lorene (Taylor) Parsley, and Bernice Taylor. 

Visitation will be held at Elmwood Funeral Home on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., also at Elmwood Funeral Home, with a graveside service at Hamby Center immediately after.