Helen Mae Binion, beloved Arthur, Illinois resident, dies at 94
Helen Mae Binion, a longtime resident of Arthur, Illinois, passed away in the early hours of Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Haven of Arcola. Her death marks the loss of a cherished member of the local community who lived nearly a century.
The family has announced that graveside funeral services will take place at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, April 20, 2026, at Arthur Cemetery, with Rev. John Stewart officiating. The Edwards Funeral Home is handling all arrangements.
Life rooted in family, community, and service
Born on April 8, 1932 in Barren County, Kentucky, Helen was the daughter of George Willis and Ruby Mae (Jefferies) London. She married Robert E. Binion on May 31, 1948, in Glasgow, Kentucky. The couple moved to Arthur, Illinois, just a month later in June 1948, where Helen remained a devoted pillar of the community for decades.
Her husband, Robert, predeceased her, passing away ten years ago on August 7, 2016. Helen is survived by her son David Binion and daughter-in-law Theresa Binion, both residents of Arthur. She also leaves behind six grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren, creating a large extended family that spans several states, including Virginia, Illinois, and Colorado.
Helen was preceded in death by one son, Dennis Binion, five sisters, and five brothers. She also maintained close friendships within her community—most notably with Grace Hutchcraft of Arthur.
Community ties and a lifetime of hard work
Helen worked at Progress Industries’ Casket Division and later spent over 25 years at Dick’s Pharmacy in Arthur, a job she valued for the numerous friendships it brought her. She was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Arthur, showing deep commitment to her faith.
Known for her meticulous care of her home and her famed chocolate pies, Helen’s warmth extended beyond family and friends to all who knew her. Her love of crossword puzzles and word searches reflected a sharp and active mind well into her later years.
Memorial donations requested to local church
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the First Baptist Church of Arthur, IL, continuing Helen’s legacy of community dedication.
This loss resonates beyond Arthur as Helen’s life story reflects the enduring values of family, hard work, and community ties familiar to many across the United States. As the community prepares to say goodbye on Monday, her legacy as a devoted matriarch and trusted friend will remain vivid.
