Helen T Bladon

Helen Bladon, age 99, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026, in Cottonwood, Arizona. She was born on January 27, 1927, in Memphis, Tennessee, to William Troy Martin and Lena Lovell Martin.

Helen pursued her passion for education and the arts at New York University, where she earned a Master of Arts degree. She enjoyed a distinguished and varied career, serving as Director of Dance at the University of Nebraska and at the State University of Iowa. She later shared her love of dance closer to home as an instructor at Verde Valley School. In addition to her accomplishments in the arts, Helen also worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse in Arkansas, reflecting her lifelong commitment to service and care for others.

A woman of deep faith and generosity, Helen was an active member of the Episcopal Church in Bella Vista, Arkansas. She devoted her time to volunteer work with Horses Help and the Walton Arts Center. Dance remained a constant joy throughout her life; she continued to enjoy the camaraderie with the Bella Vista, AR Sophisticated Ladies dance group well into her 90s.

Adventurous and spirited, Helen hiked the Grand Canyon for a river rafting trip and proudly hiked out from Phantom Ranch at the age of 65.

Helen was admired, respected, and dearly loved by all who knew her. She loved God and her family above all else and lived her life with grace, strength, and enthusiasm.

Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Doyle Bladon. She is survived by her son, Jeff Bladon and daughter-in-law Karen Capps; her daughter, Lori Jackson and son-in-law Steve Jackson; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 19, at 11:00 a.m. at Westcott Funeral Home, 1013 E. Mingus Ave., Cottonwood, Arizona.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Helen's honor to Northern Arizona Hospice.