Helen Rhodes Woodward Searle

Helen Rhodes Woodward Searle, 79, passed away peacefully on Nov. 30, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born Sept. 28, 1946, in Reno, Nevada, to Orator Frank Woodward and Dorothy Ann Reid. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Ann Woodward Russell, and her brother Frank Woodward.
Helen grew up in Palm Beach, FL, and went to the University of Geneva, where she studied human development under renowned psychologist Jean Piaget. In the 1960s, she returned to Palm Beach, where she enjoyed working for Gucci.
She is survived by her children, James A. Searle III (Denise), Jane Searle Russo (Justin), and Julie Searle Vanas; her brother Warren Woodward; her niece Nicol Russell; her nephew Andrew Russell; and five grandchildren: Thaddeus James Searle, Oliver Nicolas Searle, Andrew James Vanas, Christopher Bowen Vanas, and Justin James Russo, Jr.
Helen raised her family in White Sulphur Springs, WV, where she was deeply engaged in the community. She supported St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, the Garden Club, and was a beloved presence at the St. Thomas Labor Day Fair. She founded the WSS Dandelion Festival and the Youth Soccer Association, both of which continue today. A gifted artist and entrepreneur, she founded Creations of Sorts and published the Valley Guide newspaper throughout southwestern West Virginia and into Virginia.
After retiring to Venice, FL, Helen immersed herself in the arts, studying sumi-e ink painting, creating mosaics, quilting, alcohol-ink works, and teaching mosaic classes. She also enjoyed studying astrology and sharing astrological insights.
Helen’s greatest joy was her grandchildren, whom she enthusiastically supported at sporting events and celebrations. She will be remembered for her creativity, generosity, and lifelong pursuit of beauty and meaning.
There will be a celebration of life held Jan. 4, from 1 to 3 p.m. in Sarasota, FL, at Salt of the Earth and burial later this year in LeRoy, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Manna Food Bank https://mannafoodbank.org/?give=7xewnrd8 or Village on the Isle Tidewell Hospice House, where she received dedicated care during her final days. The mailing address is Tidewell Foundation, ATTN: VOTI Hospice House, 3550 S. Tamiami Trail FL 1, Sarasota FL 34239 or go to www.tidewellfoundation.org