Helen S. ''Mama '' Maxwell

Helen Smith-Maxwell (Wilks), 95, passed away Wednesday, April 15, 2015 at her daughter’s home in Columbus, Ohio. Helen had been residing in Columbus since July 2014. She was born in Cane Hill, Arkansas on October 20, 1920 per the family bible, however due to a mix up in the capital of Arkansas her formal date of birth is listed as March 11, 1920. Helen was blessed to finish the third grade, and continued to learn with the help of family and friends. As a young woman she moved to the city of Fayetteville (about 100 miles from Cane Hill). She found work as a housekeeper and cook. Her final job was with Dr. J. Warren and Doris L. Murray, after serving 40 years. Known to all as “Mama Helen”, she will be remembered for her love of children, cooking (the best), and helping others. She was a very loving and giving person. All were welcome within her home, and everyone was met with an offer for her sweet tea and snacks. There was always plenty for everyone. Mama Helen’s favorite hobby was cooking, she was a true chef. She should have written a cookbook with all her wonderful recipes, including her rolls that were “to die for”. Helen had been active in church from a young age, eventually joining the Church of Christ in Fayetteville, Arkansas. For several years she belonged to the Church Lady Club, they would gather once a month at a friend’s house to socialize. Mama Helen had been active in the Civil Rights Movement in Fayetteville. She was very involved in the development of school activities for black children in the Fayetteville area. Helen (along with the other black mothers) made a big change in the town without any violent actions, all were silent warriors that are now able to rest in peace because a job has been well done. Predeceased by mother Clara Parks-Smith, father Homer Smith, sons Floyd Ray Carr and Wallace Carr, as well as twelve brothers and sisters. She is survived by loving daughter, Flora Ann Phillips; son, Edward Wilks Junior; only surviving sister, Mary Ann Clark; devoted daughters-in-law, Mary E. Carr, Irene Carr and Rubbie Kay Simon; grandchildren, Thomas Car (TC), Cathy M. Cooper, Wanda Carr, Bonita Pete, Wallace Carr Junior, Dale Chandler Phillips, Audris Reina Phillips, and Samella Zugina Phillips; and a host of great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, great-great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.