Helen Evangeline (Smith) Braun, of Hagerstown, MD, entered into the presence of her Lord on June 7, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 86 years old.

Born on July 9, 1939, in Havre de Grace, MD, Helen was the eldest daughter of Clifford D. and Helen I. Smith. Throughout her life, she was known for her unwavering faith, servant's heart, gentle spirit, and deep love for her family.

Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 65 years, Carroll E. Braun, Sr., her son, Daniel Benjamin Braun, and grandson Joseph E. Boyd. While her family mourns her absence, they find comfort in knowing she has been reunited with her husband, son, and grandson in Heaven.

She is survived by her sister, Patricia Witmer; her brother, Robert Smith; her daughter, Valerie Braun Soemadi and husband Andreas Soemadi of Iowa City, IA; her son, Carroll E. Braun, Jr. and wife Heather Braun of Mercersburg, PA; her son, Sean Clifford Braun of Fort Worth, TX; and her son, James E. Boyd and Debbie Snow of Louisville, KY. She is also lovingly remembered by 10 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

Together, Helen and Carroll answered God's call to ministry through The Salvation Army. They attended The Salvation Army School for Officer Training in Atlanta, GA, from 1977 to 1979 and were commissioned as Salvation Army Officers. Over the years, they faithfully served congregations and communities throughout the United States and Mexico, including appointments in Fairmont, WV; Big Spring, TX; Texarkana, TX; Mexico City, Mexico; Baton Rouge, LA; Louisville, KY; Memphis, TN; and Anniston, AL.

Whether ministering from a pulpit, opening her home to others, offering a listening ear, or quietly helping someone in need, Helen reflected Christ's love through a life of humble service. She touched countless lives through her kindness, compassion, wisdom, and steadfast faith.

After retirement, Helen and Carroll returned to Hagerstown, where they worshiped and volunteered at The Salvation Army on George Street. Even in retirement, their dedication to ministry remained strong. On three separate occasions, they answered requests to return to active service, faithfully serving in Huntington, WV; Martinsburg, WV; and Baltimore, MD.

Above all else, Helen treasured her family. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and proud great-grandmother. Her greatest joy was encouraging others in their faith and reminding them of God's love and faithfulness.

Her family rejoices in the promise that she has now heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Viewing will be held at Minnich Funeral Home, 415 E. Wilson Blvd., Hagerstown, on Monday, June 15, 2026, from 6:00pm-8:00pm. A celebration of Helen's life will be held at The Salvation Army, 539 George Street, Hagerstown, on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 10:00am, with Major Robert Lyle officiating. Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery with Major Jimmy Taylor officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Salvation Army in Helen's memory.