Helen Ruth Dorsey Bardge was born on July 5, 1930, in Preston, Georgia. She was the beloved daughter of the late John Henry and Ruby Lee Dorsey.

During the early years of her life she received her formal education in the Webster County School System.

From a very early age, Helen was nurtured in the Word of God. As a youth, she began her Christian journey and never strayed away. She united with Third Kiokee Baptist Church where she was a dedicated member, and served faithfully as an usher, a member of the Senior Choir, and a Sunday School teacher for many years. Strong in her faith, in character, and in wisdom, she stayed on the battlefield.

She was united in holy matrimony to James Nealy, Sr. Their union endured through the years and was blessed with a large family with whom they enjoyed many happy years until his demise. In later years, she married John O. Bardge who also preceded her in death. Helen was a devoted wife and mother who loved her family dearly. Over the years, she worked untiringly to ensure the well-being of her family. Her career was very diverse and rewarding, including employment with the Dougherty County School System as a bus driver. After 16 years of service, she retired to become a "full-time grandma."

Ms. Helen and Mother Bardge, as she was affectionately called, was loved by all who had the privilege of having her in their lives. She was a kind, selfless person who saw the beauty in all things, accepted everyone for who they were, and openly welcomed them into her heart and home. She will be dearly missed.

On February 11 2019, she answered the Master's call to eternal rest. In addition to her parents and her husbands, she was preceded in death by four sons, James, Melvin, Willie Clarence, and John Wayne Nealy; and three brothers, Everett, Russell, and John Dorsey.

Loving memories will be held close in the hearts of her children, Maryland, Jacquelyn, Deborah, and Patricia Nealy, and Reginald (Lawanna) Hines all of Albany, GA, and Margaret Mathis of Atlanta, GA; daughter-in-law, Linda Nealy of Atlanta, GA; two siblings, Alvonia Cross of Albany, GA and Edison (Evelyn) Dorsey of Mansfield, OH; innumerable grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.