Helen Hayes

Helen Cecelia (Walsh) Hayes, 81, formerly of Cedar Rapids, passed away in Colorado on Monday, August 21, 2017. Mass of Christian Burial: 11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 30, 2017, at All Saints Catholic Church, Cedar Rapids, by Reverend John R. Flaherty. Visitation: two hours prior to the Mass at the church. Burial: Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Cedar Rapids. Arrangements are by Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids. Mrs. Hayes was born on 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 by having a great yard to host all of the dogs to play. Frankie, her Bichon, was a constant companion and best friend to her.