Helen Atchison, 98, went to be with her Lord on February 1, 2011. She was born June 8, 1912 to John and Lora Henderson Mitton in Hamilton, Iowa. Helen?s childhood was spent with her parents, 2 sisters and 2 brothers on a farm in Monroe County Iowa. Helen graduated from Lovilia High School in 1930. She received her teaching certificate at William Penn College. She also attended John Fletcher College and Iowa St Teacher?s College. She taught school for many years. Helen came to Hanford in 1944. She was employed in the Security Department by DuPont and then sent to the 100D area as a radio operator. She lived in the barracks, ate in the mess halls, and loved to ride the old bus. Helen married John Atchison July 11, 1947 in Richland. Later she was transferred to the Research Dept where she retired in 1978. Helen was always active in her church. She was a member of First Baptist from 1950 until her death. She loved her Lord and always wanted to serve Him. She was a Deaconess, served on local women?s groups, and was President of the Washington Conservative Baptist Women. Helen worked in children?s ministry for over 30 years and was lovingly nicknamed Miss Sunshine. She taught and lead Sunday school and Vacation Bible School. She was also teacher, counselor, and kitchen help at camps. Helen loved people but the kids were her pride and joy. Helen loved to garden and along with John loved having people in to visit and for Bible Studies. John went to be with the Lord in 1990. One of the great joys in Helen?s life was her dog Buddy. For the past 10 years Helen was still living independently at the Manor at Canyon Lakes. Helen wanted to say thank you to her many friends and a special thank you to those who helped and encouraged her so much. God bless you all. Helen is survived by her sister Eva Bettis Dothan, AL; nephews Paul Atchison Richland, WA, Rick Bettis The Villages, FL, Bill and Tom Mitton West Des Moines, IA; nieces Carmen Stuart Dothan, AL, Judy Carter Albia, IA and sister-in-law, Betty Mitton Albia, IA and numerous grand nephews and nieces. Helen will be buried beside her husband John in Riverview Heights Cemetery at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 7, 2011 at 1200 S. Olympia in Kennewick followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. at South Hills Church, 3700 West 27th Avenue in Kennewick. Donations can be made to the children?s ministry at South Hills Church.