Helen OlgaMae Jones McPherson was born on April 18, 1942 and transitioned to eternal rest on January 25, 2023.  She was born to the late Matthew and Addie "Addlay" Jones. Helen graduated from the Currituck Union School and continued her education at College of the Albemarle and Roanoke Bible College. Helen was married to the late Ernest Lee McPherson Sr. for 25 years, and from this union she had 7 children - her pride & joy.

Affectionately known as "Olga Mae", her compassion and love for her family never waivered. She has always been passionate in everything she does, whether she was volunteering in the community, taking care of family, or serving on the board of a committee. For over 15 years, Helen worked for Hampton Roads Transit driving the trolley until she retired and became known as "The Cake Lady". She joined Christian Home Baptist Church at an early age and was known for her willingness to serve, genuine hospitality, and most importantly – her famous cakes. She was a true pillar of her community and never hesitated to welcome you into her home, offer up a hot meal, and provide a word of encouragement. She was truly the Queen of her family and was treated as such. The love and care shown to our matriarch is just a reflection of the outpouring of love she has given to us over the years.

Helen J. McPherson was preceded in death by two sons, Irvin McPherson and Rev. Reginal McPherson; A grandson, Eric Williams; Son-in-law, Henry Barber; and her beloved Aunt and Uncle, Rev. Walter and Lillian Jones.

Left to cherish her legacy are her children:  Courtney "Sis" McPherson-Barber (John "Buddy" Riddick), Rev. Ernest "Junie" McPherson Jr (Valerie), Cornell "Buck" McPherson (Deborah), Lolita McPherson (the late Rev. Reginal "Reggie" McPherson), Cheryl Lily Alexander (Bernard), and Sharon "Nay" Harper; Her brother, Carl Jones (Delores); Affectionately known as her "Heartbeats" – 16 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren, 6 great-great grandchildren and growing. She has countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family & friends who loved and cherished her dearly. Our beloved queen was surrounded by family as she transitioned from labor to reward. While she will be missed, our family finds peace in knowing that she is resting in the arms of Jesus and reunited with our other loved ones.

A viewing will be held from 2pm until 4pm Saturday, February 4, 2023 at Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, 500 Liberty Street, Chesapeake. The funeral service will be held 12 noon Sunday, February 5, 2023 at Moyock Elementary School, 255 Shingle Landing Road, Moyock, NC 27958. Burial will be at Christian Home Baptist Church, 326 Tulls Creek Road, Moyock, NC 27958.

You can join the service livestream at: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/2357784385