Mrs. Helen J. Vinson

Helen J. Belvin Wagner Vinson (Redwing) Helen (Redwing) Vinson walked into her Saviors arms April 14, 2013. Her untimely passing is preceded by her two children, Terry J. Belvin and an infant child, one grandchild, five sisters; Mamie, Pansy, Alice, Catherine and Mary; three brothers, John, Harry and Samuel, and her parents, Bernard Belvin and Durfie Branham Belvin. She is survived by her husband Joseph Edward Vinson III, seven children including, Crystal, Brenda, Joseph, Pamela and Bernard; ten grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, 3 step sons; Nathan, Joseph and JG, two step grandchildren; two sisters Ella and Anna; two brothers Bernard and David, many nieces, nephews, friends and other family who will all mourn her passing. Helen was a member of the Monacan Indian Nation of Amherst VA, was loyal in the Pentecostal faith and was a lifetime member of Jimmy Swaggart Ministries. Services for Helen will be at the Reger Funeral Home in Huntington, WV on Sunday, April 21, 2013 with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. and services at 3:00 p.m. She will rest in Dock’s Creek Cemetery, Kenova, WV. Helen was loved and respected by many and especially throughout Indian Country. She was a mentor, advisor, friend, and visionary to so many. She was fondly known also as Mama Bear for her many admirable traits, which include protection of her people and heritage, a mother and protector of many, and her unpredictable free spirit. She inspired with her wit and wisdom and created a legacy that will endure. Comments from her many family and friends include: “…my friend you will forever be one of our Monacan Angels” and “You will be forever missed but never forgotten.” A special appreciation to her daughter Pam for providing years of tireless and selfless support and love ensuring Helen and Ed were always comfortable and cared for. Many Native American tribes considered the “Great Spirit” often takes on the form of a bear. The bear would lead hunters on great chases and its spirit reborn each spring. Such is the case with Mama Bear (Redwing) her spirit was reborn this spring by the graces and sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. God Bless. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.regerfh.com.