Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. Proverbs 31:10

Sis. Helen Hayes Hold began her Christian journey on September 5, 1921 in Bogalusa, La. She was the daughter of the late Will and Della Hayes.

She accepted Christ at an early age at Hart’s Chapel Baptist Church in Hart’s Chapel, Miss., under the leadership of the Reverend Hart. She later joined New Welcome Baptist Church in the Whitesand Community in Poplarville, Miss, where she actively served with the Deaconess Ministry, and Choir. She moved to Picayune, Miss., in the early 70’s and continued her Christian journey as a member of East Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of the late Reverend Dr. Alonzo Dees, and continued her membership under Pastor Brian K. Dees where she diligently served until her death. Sis. Holt was an active member of Home Mission, President of the Senior Choir, Sunday School teachers, and Deaconess Ministry. Sis. Holt was known by many as “Mother Holt” the Church Matriarch. She graciously shared her wisdom and knowledge about the Lord to her church family and will be sadly missed by many. She was previously employed by the Picayune Public School System.

Helen united in marriage to the love of her life, Samuel Holt Sr., and to this union 12 children were born. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and God fearing woman.

On Saturday, December 29, 2012, Helen completed her earthly journey and went home to be with the Lord embraced by her loving, caring and devoted family. She was preceded in death by: her parents, Will and Della Hayes; her loving husband, Samuel Holt, Sr.; her children: Samuel Holt Jr., Charles Vester Holt, Mary Ella Holt-Terrell, and Helen Faye Holt-Davis; her only sister, Hilda Hart; and two brothers, Otha Hayes, and Luther “Son” Hayes. Helen leaves to cherish her legacy of Christian faith and family values: her children, Edward James Holt (Katherine), Virgie Lee Peters, Mary Frances Hardaway, Minnie Mae Crockrum (Edward), Lonnie Earl Holt (Mary Alice), Geneva Swain (Mack Sr.), Alvin Bernard Holt, and Lawrence O’Keith Holt (Sharyn); 29 grandchildren; and a host of great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; cousins; and a devoted friend Doris Parker.

Funeral services were held Monday, January 7, 2013 at 11 a.m. at East Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor Brian K. Dees officiated. Interment was held in the Dave Mondy Cemetery, Whitesand Community in Poplarville.

Entrusted to Brown’s Funeral Home.