Mary Helen Thomas was born on September 25, 1937, in Elberton County to Sallie Mae Cade Fortson and Peter Fortson. She graduated from Bethel Grove High School. Helen was a devoted member of the church. She joined Rose Hill Baptist Church at an early age. She later joined Antioch Baptist Church where she served on the usher board, the women of Grace and the senior citizen ministry.
Helen departed this life on November 30, 2024, surrounded by family.
She is preceded in death by her parents, sister Gladys Fortson, and her son Gregory Kent Hawes. She leaves to cherish her memory one brother Mr. Peter (Sanda) Fortson Jr.; three sisters Mrs. Emma Jordan, Mrs. Joanne (Franklin) Young and Mrs. Maggie (Steve) Jackson; one son, Mr. James (Jennifer) Hawes; Grandchildren Squanka Thomas, Rico (Chrisshuna) Hawes, Kendra (Paul) Merck,
Tavarvess (Jodi) Ware, and Justin (Tonya) Hawes; twelve great-grandchildren, one great great grandson and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at Antioch Baptist Church, 1010 Mill Street, Gainesville, GA 30501 at 1:00 PM. Visitation will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024 at Wimberly Funeral Home between the hours of 12:00 PM- 8:00 PM. Family will receive friends between the hours of 6:00 PM- 8:00 PM.
Professional Services Entrusted to Wimberly Funeral Home.