Helen S. Sebastian

Helen S. Sebastian (Wilson), 90, Independence, Kansas, passed away on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Medicalodges in Independence, Kansas. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Sunnyside Cemetery in Caney, Kansas.

Helen was born on January 31, 1935, to Walter E. and Dora M. (Anderson) Williams in Chautauqua, Kansas. Helen attended Sedan and Caney public schools. On June 6, 1953, Helen married Harlan Wilson, and the couple made their home in Baldwin City, Kansas.

Helen attended Coffeyville Community College, Pittsburg State University, Emporia State University, and finally Kansas University, where she received her master’s degree in education in 1970. Helen was employed as a teacher in several schools until the couple moved to Independence, Kansas, where Helen was employed with the Independence Kansas Public Schools until her retirement. Following her retirement, Helen enjoyed quilting and tutoring local students out of her home. Helen was a very active member of the First Baptist Church in Independence, Kansas, where she taught Sunday School and served as a deaconess.

Helen was preceded in death by her husbands, Harlan Wilson and John Sebastian; one brother, Walter Edwin Williams II; two sisters, Billie Louise Copeland and Marjorie Ann Wilson; and her son-in-law, Scott Barnhart. Those left to cherish her memory include two children Andy ( Anne) Wilson, Mount Union, PA; Amy L. Barnhart, Independence, KS; four grandchildren, Matthew ( Meagan) Barnhart, Lake Park, IA; Travis ( Amy E.) Barnhart, Independence, KS; Drew Wilson, Mount Union, PA; Maggie ( Ben) Aaron, Waco, TX; nine great- grandchildren, Bowden Barnhart, Bella Barnhart, Paxton Barnhart, Presley Barnhart, Piper Barnhart, Harper Bannister, Ellie Aaron, Addie Aaron, Miles Wilson. To leave a special message for the family please visit www.pottsfuneralhome.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Potts Chapel.