Helga Maria Kent passed peacefully on August 10, 2023, at her home in Georgetown, Texas.

She was the only child born to Eugen and Liesbeth Barth on November 24, 1938, in Berlin-Schoeneberg, Germany.  Her early childhood memories included World War II.  Despite this hard time, Helga was a happy child with a loving family.  She spoke fondly of the kindness shown by the Russian, American and British soldiers who gave the children chocolate and candy.  And, a little less fondly, being chased by a wild boar on a farm in Switzerland.

Helga met Charles "Chuck" Kent on a double-date in Ramstein, Germany.  Overcoming the language barrier, Helga and Chuck married within six months.  In Chuck, Helga found a person who loved her to bits and encouraged her to be a true partner in building their life together.  Chuck's career in the US Air Force allowed them to live in the US (California, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Carolina) and overseas (Guam, The Netherlands, Turkey) while raising two daughters – Kathy and Sue.  After retiring from the Air Force in Ramstein, Germany, Chuck passed away a few years later.

After her mother passed, Helga returned to California.  While her life slowed down a little, Helga found time for crafts (cross-stitch, latch hook), puzzles (crossword, Suduko – always using a pen), pampering the dogs, and exploring the Bay Area from Hearst Castle to Napa Valley to San Rafael where she volunteered at Guide Dogs for the Blind.

In 2015, Helga moved to McKinney, Texas and then to the Austin area.  When a series of falls left her less independent, she adjusted with her usual grace, determination and strength of spirit.  She explored Austin, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Georgetown wineries, Gruene, and Fredericksburg.  When she was not able to walk as much, she enjoyed eating out, an action movie (with popcorn, please!), or watching game shows on TV.

Helga made many friends throughout her life.  She is remembered for her smile, sense of humor, sweet tooth, kindness, and always having time for people by listening or offering a hug.  She was a sweetie!

Helga is survived by her two daughters – Kathy and Sue, brother-in-law – Bill, niece and nephew – LaDawn and Bill, and the beloved poochies – Honey, Kira, Loki and Kiki.

A memorial service will be held at Ramsey Funeral Home, 5600 Williams Dr, Georgetown, Texas, at 10:00 AM on Friday, August 25, 2023.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your favorite charity or church.