Helen Hayes

HELEN HAYES

Centennial, Colo.

Helen Cecelia (Walsh) Hayes, 81, formerly of Cedar Rapids, passed away in Colorado on Monday, Aug. 21, 2017. Mass of Christian Burial: 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30, at All Saints Catholic Church, Cedar Rapids, by the Rev. John R. Flaherty. Visitation: two hours before the Mass at the church. Burial: Mount Calvary Cemetery, Cedar Rapids. Arrangements by Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids.

Mrs. Hayes was born March 15, 1936, and was a lifelong resident of Cedar Rapids until her health required a move to Colorado in 2015 to be close to family caregivers. Helen Cecelia Walsh married her best friend and true love, John Hutchison Hayes, on June 22, 1963. She was a graduate of Franklin High School in 1954, then enjoyed a successful career as a speech pathologist after graduating from the University of Iowa. She served the students of several Eastern Iowa schools during her 35-year career with the Grant Wood Area Education Association. This included Grant Wood Elementary School, which was right in her back yard.

Survivors include her children, James (Susan) Hayes, Patricia Hayes, Mary (Dan) Gavin and Derrick (Bethany) Hayes; eight grandchildren, John and Samuel Hayes, Maureen and Seamus Gavin and Gabrielle, Jackson, Liliana and Evangelina Hayes; and many extended family members and friends.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents and beloved husband, John Hayes.

Helen was a very patient, sweet person, who was very social in the neighborhood and church community. She was a member of the All Saints Church Circle and enjoyed playing in various bridge groups and clubs over the years. In the neighborhood, she was well known for having a great yard to host all of the dogs to play. Frankie, her bichon, was a constant companion and best friend to her.

Memorials may be directed to All Saints Catholic Church.

Please share your support and memories with Helen's family on her tribute wall at www.stewartbaxter.com under obituaries.