Helen Joyce Combs, lovingly Known as a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, was born on March 20, 1946, in Bearden, Arkansas, to Florine Hudspeth and Otha Poole. She peacefully transitioned from this life on April 13, 2026, in Little Rock, Arkansas

Helen was bright, friendly and a curious child who naturally embraced responsibility as the eldest sibling. From an early age, she helped her mother with household duties and lovingly cared for her younger brothers and sisters. In pursuit of greater opportunities, her family later relocated to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she would continue to grow and thrive.

After settling on the north side of Milwaukee, Helen began her educational journey attending local schools and graduating from North Division High School in 1965. She was also a longtime member of Clement Memorial AME Zion Church.  Throughout her life, Helen was guided by a spirit of service and compassion. She worked in several fields, including nursing, home health care, and daycare, but her most meaningful role was a foster parent. She opened her heart and home to children in need, eventually adopting five of the seven children she fostered, and enduring testament to her love, generosity, and unwavering commitment to family.

In 1983, Helen met and married Michael Ryan Combs. Together, they blended their families and shared 43 years of marriage until his passing in January 2025. Their union reflected deep love, resilience and a lifelong partnership built on devotion and mutual support.

Helen found joy in life’s simple pleasure. She loved shopping at Goodwill and the 7 Mile fair, traveling on vacations and cruises, dining out, attending Christmas holiday parades, and visiting local casinos…where she especially enjoyed playing the Buffalo game. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family, whether gathered at backyard cookouts or singing together during annual Christmas celebrations. Her laughter, warmth, and loving presence brought comfort and happiness to all who knew her, and her legacy will live on in the many lives she touched.

Helen was preceded in death by her father, Otha Poole, and her stepfather, David Robinson, children, Deanna “Dee Dee” Davis, Yolanda, “YoYo” Campbell, and Eric Combs.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her loving mother, Florine Robinson, siblings, Alice  Stokes (Jasper), Shirk Gilbert (Ricky), Larry Robinson, Velma Robinson, Delois Kenner (Philip), and Michael Robinson and David Robinson, Jr., her children, Olivia El_Amin (Saleem), Dennis Ray Robinson, William Tracy Robinson, Lavonia Michele Nelson, John Combs, Tommie Combs, Larue Combs, and James Combs. She is also survived her grandchildren; Najee El-Amin, Keyana Robinson, Yolanda Nelson, Devin Robinson, Delane Nelson, Kejuwon Robinson, Megan Robinson, Takari Ryan Combs, and Luna Combs and her great grandchildren, Joycelen Nelson, Jakob Nelson, Danaysia Robinson, and Deontae Robinson along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Helens Life was a testament to love, sacrifice, and strength. She will forever remain in our hearts.