Mother Helen Louise Hines

Mother Helen Louise Hines, age 97, left her earthly body and went into the presence of the Lord on October 6, 2024. She was born on December 15, 1926 in Charleston, South Carolina to Bessie Milligan and Tonkey Brown. She spent the early years of her life in Charleston, until she met and married Odell Hines Sr. and moved to Columbus, Ohio. She remained a devoted wife until his passing in 1962. She had six children, Odessa, Odell Jr., John Thomas, Margaret Ann, Jacqueline and Gwendolyn. 

Helen became an entrepreneur at a young age. While living in South Carolina, she gained experience working in restaurants. After relocating to Ohio, she owned several food trucks and restaurants. Additionally, she held various domestic jobs in people's homes. 

Helen was renowned for her incredible soul food cooking, especially her beloved sweet potato pies. However, she was equally recognized for her exceptional fishing skills, which she developed at a young age. In addition, she passed on her fishing knowledge to several of her grandchildren. 

Helen was a devoted servant in the churches she attended, working under Apostle Fred Saunders, Pastor Nathan Milton, and most recently, Pastor J. Paulette Taylor at the time of her passing. She actively participated by playing the drums, working in the kitchen, and serving on the mothers' board, always eager to assist in any way she could. 

Helen is preceded in death by her mother, Bessie Washington; her father, Tonkey Brown; her eldest daughter, Odessa Wilson; and her grandson, Odell (Champ) Hines II. 

She is survived by her beloved sister, Betty Manigault of South Carolina, her brother, William Washington of Texas, and her children: sons Odell Hines Jr. and John Hines Sr. (Betty), along with Gwendolyn Hines, Margaret Jones, and Jacqueline Payne (Jeffrey). She also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and many cherished family members and friends.