Helen Beatrice Harwood

Helen Beatrice Lorch Harwood, 93, of Stanly County, passed away peacefully at her home on October 8, 2026. She was born on December 9, 1932, in Stanly County to the late Matthew Lorch and Onnie Lowder Lorch.

Helen was also preceded in death by her husband, Herbert Ray Harwood; her son, Eddie D. Harwood; her sisters, Bessie Lee Lorch and Mary Jewel Lorch Medley; and her brother, Cecil Clay Lorch.

She leaves behind her son, Donnie Harwood and his wife, Rhonda of Locust; grandchildren, Jennifer N. Harwood of Albemarle, Matthew Harwood and his wife, Lauren of Albemarle, and Heather Harwood of Stanfield; and great-grandchildren Saylor Grace Harwood and Olivia Harwood both of Albemarle, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 4:30 pm at Plyler Baptist Church Cemetery, 25958 Austin Rd., Albemarle, if inclement weather the service will be held in the church.

Helen had a special place in her heart for animals and never met an animal she didn’t like. She especially loved the summer months and looked forward to tending her vegetable garden. She enjoyed cooking and canning the vegetables she grew, and her family will always say that no one could fry chicken quite like Helen.

She was also a talented seamstress who could sew just about anything. In her quieter moments, Helen enjoyed watching Gunsmoke and listening to George Jones. These simple pleasures, along with her love of family, home, and animals, were such an important part of the life she lived.

Helen will be remembered for her love of family, her generous heart, her many talents, and the simple joys she found in everyday life. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Cindy Mauney for taking such good care of Helen and for the love and kindness she showed her. Also, a special Thank you to Susan Deberry for spending her weekends and evenings taking good care of Helen. The family also expresses their sincere gratitude to Gentiva Health Services for their compassion, comfort, and care during Helen’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Gentiva Foundation, Stanly County Senior Services (Home Delivered Meals), or the Stanly County Humane Society in Helen’s memory.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the Harwood family.