Helen Virginia Broyles

Helen Virginia Broyles, 94, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at her home in Shepherdsville, Kentucky, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on July 25, 1931, in Louisville, Kentucky, Helen was the beloved daughter of Andrew and Lillie Smythe. Throughout her long and meaningful life, she was known for her love of family, her warm personality, and the joy she brought to everyone around her.

Helen was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and sister. Family was the center of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with those she loved. Whether gathered around the dinner table, enjoying a vacation, or simply sharing stories, Helen's greatest happiness came from being surrounded by family.

She had a little sass, a wonderful sense of humor, and a laugh that could brighten any room. Helen never met a stranger and was always happiest when she was around people. She loved to talk, share stories, and pass along wisdom and advice to her children, grandchildren, and generations beyond. A devoted member of St. Aloysius, her faith was an important part of her life and provided her with strength, comfort, and community throughout the years. Her guidance, encouragement, and love will remain treasured memories for all who knew her.

Helen especially enjoyed spending time with her son, Jerry. Together they shared many enjoyable outings, including shopping trips, meals together, and countless conversations that strengthened their special bond.

She also loved traveling with her family and created many cherished memories on vacations to Myrtle Beach, Virginia Beach, Dollywood, Gatlinburg, and South Carolina. These trips became treasured family traditions filled with laughter, adventure, and togetherness.

In her spare time, Helen enjoyed searching for bargains at yard sales, spending time outdoors enjoying the beauty of nature, and relaxing with some of her favorite television shows, including The Young and the Restless, Guiding Light, The Andy Griffith Show, and Gunsmoke. She found joy in life's simple pleasures and had a remarkable ability to make everyday moments special.

Above all, Helen will be remembered for her loving heart, her strong family values, her cheerful spirit, and her ability to make others feel welcomed and loved. The memories she created and the lessons she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Helen will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her, but her legacy of love, laughter, and devotion to family will remain forever.

Helen is preceded in death by her husband, William Emmett Broyles; siblings, Samuel Smythe, Russell Smythe, Dolly Smythe, and Lavada Luckett; great-grandchild, Gabriel Miller Huffer; and her parents, Andrew Smythe and Lillie Devore Smythe.

Left to cherish her memory, Helen is survived by her children, Gerald Broyles, Cheryl Semenko, Mary Huffer (Jeffrey), and Teri Broughton (Greg); siblings, Lois Lee, Mary Palanti (Victor), Henry Smythe (Janet), and Raymond Smythe (Pat); grandchildren, Mandi Jo Pershon (Donald), Sandra Leigh Causey (Neil); Cheryl Faye Broughton, Andrew W. Broughton, Michelle Black, Michael Semenko, Marissa Semenko, Kristina Baker, and Michael Huffer (Dawn); great-grandchildren, Lucas Pershon, Jacob Pershon, Mykala Black, Kody Baker, Violet Huffer, Ash Jade Huffer, and Adeline Huffer; great-great grandchildren, Braxton Baker and Patrick Baker; and special caregiver and friend, Rhonda Christ.

A funeral service for Ms. Helen Broyles will be held at 6 PM on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, with Deacon Kevin Webb officiating, at Louisville Memorial Gardens West Funeral Home, 4400 Dixie Highway, Louisville, Kentucky. Visitation will be held from 5 PM to 6 PM at the funeral home, prior to the service. Private burial at Louisville Memorial Gardens West will take place on Thursday, June 18, 2026.