Helen Jean Tenner

Helen Jean Tenner Obituary

Helen Jean Tenner was born on February 27, 1965, in Chicago, Illinois, to James Henry Tenner and Ollie Lee McAdory. She was raised in Rockford, Illinois, by Treva Tenner before later returning to Chicago, where she attended Farragut High School. Helen went on to build a beautiful family, becoming the proud mother of six children. In 1996, she made the decision to raise her family in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a place she lovingly called home. She dedicated many years to the healthcare field, serving in various roles throughout her career.

On January 28, 2025, Helen was called home to be with the Lord.

Her legacy lives on through her beloved children: Terrell Tenner, Martell “Twon” Tenner, Cassandra “Kay” Tenner, Mitchell Tenner, Daniel “Mr. Wilson” Wilson, and Christina “Lil Ma/Mama” Tenner. She was also a loving stepmother to Aylishia “Leelee” Kidd and Shaquayla “Shay” Kidd. In addition, she embraced three sons as her own: Lil Mike (“Nigga Right 2”), her godson Michael “Mike” Mallett, and her son-in-law Marquis “Mark” Milton.

Helen, affectionately known as “Mama Helen” to many beyond her immediate family, was a devoted grandmother to eight grandchildren: Michael “Mike” Henderson, Marshawn Brown, Markayla “Lonely” Milton, Markell “Mister” Milton, Chynea Brown, Markeisha “Margaret” Milton, Kameron “Major” Wilks Jr., and Carter “Munch” Wilks. She also adored her beloved dog, Duke.

She is survived by her siblings: sisters Jackie Tenner, Nettie Tenner, and Teresa Dumuke; and brothers Michael McAdory, Nic Tenner, and Aymond Tenner. She leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Helen was preceded in death by her father, James Henry Tenner; her mother, Ollie Lee McAdory (“Ma”); her bonus mother, Treva Ann Tenner (“Nana T”); her sister, Carolyn D. Tenner; her brothers, Miller Tenner and James Henry Tenner III; and her grandmother, Jessie Tenner (“Granny”).

Helen’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family and friends will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.