Helen M. Chalcraft

Helen M. Chalcraft, 85, of Ellery, Illinois passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026, at The Villas of Holly Brook in Mt. Carmel, Illinois.

Helen was born October 10, 1940, in Wayne County, Illinois to Thomas Ralph and Emily (Fisher) Smerdon. She married Paul Chalcraft October 10, 1959, and they enjoyed over 66 years of marriage. In her lifetime, she worked in banking, a clothing factory, Keith Reid’s Auction Service, and Dr. Mark Garrison’s Chiropractic Clinic. She retired from the chiropractic clinic to be a caregiver for her parents, father-in-law and mother-in-law, and brother-in-law. Helen readily helped her daughters and their families and loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed being outdoors and mowing the yard. Helen took pleasure in traveling the area and visiting with people at McDonald’s, where she had many friends.

Helen is survived by her husband, Paul; two daughters: Debbie (Steve) Beadles and Jennifer (Robert) Thomason; seven grandchildren: Shelby, Javonna (Drew), Syanne, Turner, Thad (Crystal), Josh (Bethany), and Joe (Kari); and four great-grandchildren: Gwendolyn, Silas, Emma, and Ruby. A sister, Ethel Powell, also survives. She will be fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and friends, including members of the Beadles family: Kathy, Toby (Carol), and Brad (Sylvia).

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Emily Smerdon; a sister, Margaret Ellis; and a brother, Jim Smerdon.

There will be no formal services for Helen M. Chalcraft. Cremation will occur with burial at Graceland Cemetery in Albion, Illinois at a future date.

Ingram Meridith Funeral Home of Albion, IL.