Helen Hayes Gardner Washington, age 107, of Birmingham, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2025. Born in Burkville, Alabama, she was the ninth of fifteen children of William "Billy" and Roberta Carson Gardner.

She was a beloved member of the Smithfield neighborhood, a retiree of the Birmingham Housing Authority, and an active member St. Mark Episcopal Church, where she worshiped faithfully for over 60 years.

She is survived by her children: George Jr. (Jacquelyn), Harold, Cecil (Olivia), Minnie (Richard Finley), and daughter-in-law Vicki Washington, along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George Arthur Washington Sr.; her son, Donald Washington; and daughter-in-law, Melody Washington.

The homegoing service will be held Wednesday, April 23 at 11 a.m. at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 228 Dennison Ave SW, Birmingham, AL 35211.

She will be laid to rest at Elmwood Cemetery, 600 Martin Luther King Jr Dr, Birmingham, AL 35211.