Helen Johnson Leslie, born on December 15, 1927, in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, passed away on December 24, 2024. She was a dedicated social worker for the Louisiana State Department of Health and Human Services and served as a beloved teacher at Saline High School, positively impacting the lives of countless people throughout her career.

A long-time member of Strange Methodist Church, Helen actively participated in her community for many years, where she cultivated lasting relationships and shared her passion for service. Helen graduated from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, where her commitment to helping others blossomed.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Sidney and Annie Zylphia Johnson; her spouse William D. "Bill" Leslie and former spouse Durwood Nails; her sister Laura Katherine Dyball and brother-in-law Joe Dyball; as well as her brother Richard Johnson and brothers-in-law Curtis Dison and J.D. Ables.

She is survived by her cherished family including daughter, Professor Debra Nails of Mount Freedom, New Jersey, and son-in-law William Levitan; her son Russell D. Nails of Saline, Louisiana; granddaughter Abigail Nails and her spouse Kyle McEntee; and grandson Brady Nails and his spouse Tori Nails. Additionally, Helen leaves behind her loving sisters Lottie Dison and Carol Ables; her brother Harold Joe Johnson and sister-in-law Barbara Johnson; and sister-in-law Bobbie Johnson.

Helen was a beloved and active member of her community, touching the lives of many, and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Services will be held at Strange Methodist Church in Saline on December 28th. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by the service at 11:00 AM and burial at 12:00 PM. Refreshments will follow the service.

Pallbearers will include nephews and grandnephews: Dr. Brad Johnson (Honorary), Jarod Johnson, Patrick Johnson, Kevin Johnson, Kenny Johnson, Jerry Dison, Reggie Ables (Honorary), Jeremy Ables (Honorary), Josh Johnson, Jake Johnson, Justin Fairchild, and Mitchell Snead.

Helen Johnson Leslie's legacy of love, compassion, and commitment to making the world a better place will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.