Helen Louise Hynes Dray, 91, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2025, in Kissimmee, Florida, just days shy of her 92nd birthday.
She was born on March 23, 1933, in Washington Court House, Ohio, the beloved daughter of Loren and Margaret Stemler Hynes.
Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Major Charles Marvin Dray, and her brother, Loren Drexel Hynes, Jr.
She leaves behind a loving family, including her sons: Charles Marvin Dray Jr. (Anya), David Drexel Dray (Janet), and Christopher Stemler Dray (Susan). Helen was a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren: Scott Bradley Dray, Kerry Elizabeth Knapik, Erica Marie Dray, David Charles Dray, Savannah Nicole Dray, Nicholas Dillon Dray, Joseph Andrew Guerra, and Alex Drexel Dray.
Helen graduated from Washington High School in 1951, and Ohio Wesleyan University in 1955, where she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta. It was during her high school years that she met the love of her life, Charles Marvin Dray (Charlie), an Air Force fighter pilot. Their marriage was filled with travel and adventure, as they lived in various parts of the world. Their first son, Charles Jr., was born in Washington Court House, their second son, David, was born in Alaska before it became a state, and their youngest, Chris, was born in Naples, Italy.
In 1967, the family returned to Tampa, Florida, where Charlie reported to MacDill Air Force Base for training on the F4E fighter plane. Tragically, Major Charles Dray was killed in a plane crash during training exercises on March 19, 1968, exactly 57 years before Helen’s passing. At the time, their sons were just 2, 8, and 11 years old.
Despite the immense loss, Helen chose to stay in Tampa and raise her family, becoming both mother and father to her boys. She took on roles such as Cub Scout leader, soccer coach, and homeroom mother, embodying the spirit of a dedicated single parent.
In 1982, with her sons grown, Helen pursued further education, earning a Master of Arts in Counseling and Development from the University of South Florida and later a master’s in counseling and psychology from Nova University. She established a private practice as a marriage and family counselor and became a sought-after speaker for ministries and Christian women’s clubs. Helen’s musical talent also shone brightly as she served as a pianist and organist for Bible study groups and retirement facilities throughout the Tampa area.
Helen’s deep faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was a long-time member of Grace United Methodist Church in Washington Court House and later joined Christ Community Church in Tampa. She was also an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and served as President of the Tampa Chapter of the Kappa Alpha Theta Alumni.
Her legacy of love, resilience, and faith will be cherished by all who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and community.
Helen’s family is planning a private graveside service to be held Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 10 a.m. in the Washington Cemetery with Todd Maurer, involvement minister at Southside Church of Christ, officiating.
Local arrangements are under the direction of the Kirkpatrick Funeral Home in Washington Court House.
www.kirkpatrickfuneralhome.com
