Helen Vera Purcell Levao

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL

With hearts full of sorrow but overflowing with gratitude, we honor the life and legacy of a remarkable woman - a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and unwavering disciple of Jesus Christ - Helen Vera Purcell Levao.

Born on June 27, 1959, Helen returned to her Heavenly Father’s embrace on the evening of July 19, 2025, surrounded by the love she spent a lifetime building. Her mortal journey ended in peace, wrapped in the presence of her eternal family, and began anew in the joy of reunion with those who passed before her - her beloved parents and siblings, now welcoming her home.

Helen was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was sealed to her parents in the Hamilton New Zealand Temple, a sacred covenant that became the foundation for the way she lived - with devotion, humility, and eternal perspective. She never turned away from a calling, and served willingly and joyfully in countless roles. The only time she ever requested a release was from her cherished calling as ward organist, and only because her eyesight, though faithful in spirit, could no longer allow her to read the notes.

She is survived by her eternal companion of 40 years, whose love and partnership stand as a beacon of constancy and covenant. Together they raised three children, who, along with their spouses - her children in love - became the living extension of her teachings, her testimony, and her love. She also leaves behind 10 treasured grandchildren, whom she adored beyond measure, and who will forever carry her voice in their ears and her light in their lives.

Helen’s love radiated far beyond her home. Her siblings, nieces, nephews, and all who knew her experienced her spirit - gentle yet powerful, humble yet unwavering. She never needed to announce her strength - it was simply felt.

To her children, Helen was a spiritual compass. When pride crept into their hearts, she would lovingly whisper the word “Onosa’i” - patience in Samoan - reminding them that humility invites the Spirit and pride drives it away. To her eldest, she often repeated a phrase learned during his football years: “Be light on your feet.” It was more than advice for the field - it was a spiritual invitation to move where the Lord needs you, swiftly and faithfully.

She had the soul of a musician and the ear of a master. Her love of music flowed from generations before her - her father and mother, her siblings too, praised God through song. Music was not just sound in her home; it was spirit, memory, and ministry. It was how her family prayed, how they rejoiced, and how they endured together.

She understood the truth behind the scripture: “The song of the righteous is a prayer unto me” (D&C 25:12). And so she invited her children to sing the hymns - and when words failed, to hum their favorites - that they might always be praying, always remembering, always reaching heavenward.

When she played, you didn’t just hear music - you felt the Spirit move.

Helen Vera Purcell Levao lived a sermon without ever standing at a pulpit.

She didn’t just teach the Gospel - she embodied it.

Her life was a quiet masterpiece of discipleship: humble, prayerful, steady, and full of love.

Her life teaches us still:

That faith is not convenience, but commitment.

That love is not loud, but lasting.

That a mother’s influence does not end with her breath - it echoes through generations.

As the veil parted, we believe she heard these words from her Savior:

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of thy Lord.”

(Matthew 25:21)

Though we now weep, we do not despair, we do not fear, our mother knew it. For the plan of salvation assures us - this is not goodbye, but until we meet again.

Ia manuia lava lau malaga, Mom.

Thank you for teaching us to walk with light feet, to sing in harmony, and to serve with all our hearts.

We love you - eternally, FIT (Feiloa’i I Talosaga=Always Meet in Prayers).

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 9th at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 981 S Walnut Ave, Cookeville, TN 38501. Interment will follow at Cookeville City Cemetery. Elder Mark Riches will officiate. Her family will receive friends Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. at the church.

Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.