January 16, 2021, 92, Goldsboro –
Helen Perkins Edmundson McLean, 92, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, January 16, 2021.
Helen was born in Wayne County on January 19, 1928 to the late Timothy Stanton Perkins and Ruth Cleveland Hooks Perkins. She was married for 28 years to the late Wilbert C. “Buck” Edmundson and has been married for 31 years to Thomas McLean.
Helen was a graduate of Hardbarger Business College and Atlantic Christian College. She received two Master’s Degrees from East Carolina University. Helen worked for Goldsboro Milling Company for 15 years and retired from Wayne County Public Schools. She enjoyed the opportunities given to her by helping to impact the lives of so many students while serving as a teacher and guidance counselor. As an entrepreneur, Helen founded Edmundson Enterprises, Inc. and was continuing to operate it with the help of her son, Eddie, until her death. They also proudly owned and operated Bogue View Beach Parks I and II at Atlantic Beach. Helen loved the beach, her loyal companion, Prince, but most of all her family.
Helen was a member of St. Luke United Methodist Church in Goldsboro and while living in Morehead City attended First United Methodist Church. She had a large extended circle of family and friends and they were all very special to her.
Her contagious smile and outgoing personality broke down barriers and opened doors to an exciting and fulfilled life. She was the life of the party. Raised as a Christian in the Rosewood Community, Helen was always honest, respectful and to-the-point with her opinions. She will never be forgotten as she was surely one of a kind.
The family will receive friends on her birthday, Tuesday, January 19, 2021 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Seymour Funeral Home followed by a service to celebrate Helen’s life at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel with Rev. Dr. Gerry Davis and Rev. Charles Moseley officiating. Interment will be in Wayne Memorial Park. At other times, the family will be at the home of Eddie and Parker Edmundson in the Rosewood Community. Attendees are asked to wear a face covering and practice social distancing.
In addition to her husband, Helen is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Eddie Ray Edmundson and wife Parker of Goldsboro; grandson, Buck Edmundson and Kellen of Wilson; granddaughter, Rae Ann Edmundson Frederick and husband Jackson of Goldsboro; great-grandchildren, Buxon and Kanon Edmundson and Genevieve Frederick; and brother, Robert E. “Bob” Perkins. She is also survived by her six step-children, T.J., Kathy, Patty, Eileen, Dionna, and Chris, and their families.
She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Howard, Stanton and James; and sister, Marie.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be given in her memory to St. Luke United Methodist Church, 1608 E. Pine Street, Goldsboro, NC 27534 or to First United Methodist Church, 900 Arendell Street, Morehead City, NC 28557.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
