Helen Haywood

Helen Haywood (née Helen Hill), of Las Vegas, passed away peacefully in her sleep at Dawn Garden Home Care facility on Tuesday August 8, 2023. Helen was born in Moultrie, Georgia on May 22, 1944, and was the only child of Ellen & Barney Hill. Although born in the south, Helen spent most of her formative years at the Jersey shore and was a graduate of Atlantic City High School class of 1962 where she was a Debutante and was also recognized for her exceptional singing voice. After high school, Helen moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. She returned to South Jersey after a few years and was employed at the Atlantic City Post Office as a mail clerk before enrolling in Atlantic City’s first casino gaming industry training program. After completing her training, Helen went on to become a Blackjack dealer at Resorts International, Atlantic City's first hotel & casino which opened its doors in May 1978. She would soon go on to become one of the property’s first Pit Bosses. She spent more than two decades in the Atlantic City gaming industry, working at multiple boardwalk properties, before retiring in her early 50s to care for her family. Helen was known for her kind and generous nature, and always treated those around her like family. She absolutely loved taking pictures and was very passionate about her children and grandchildren. She loved capturing the milestones of their lives with her camera whenever possible. Her life was enriched when she met her life partner, Frances Thornton Smith, in 1985 and they legally became domestic partners in December 2005. Helen’s memory and legacy will live on through her son Jason (Darlene) Haywood, her daughters Dr. Danielle (Roger) Coplon; Jada Hill; and Regina Hill. Beloved grandchildren Tatiana, Paris, Jaylynn, Jordan, Jh'imon, Journey, and Je’More; and great grandchildren Jamal, Jayla, Kailani, and Ahmed Jr. She also leaves behind a host of extended family and close friends who loved her dearly. Helen was preceded in death by her life partner and best friend, Frances T. Smith; and her beloved mother, Ellen Hill. Final arrangements have been entrusted to Thomas & Jones Funeral Home (2457 N. Decatur Blvd., Las Vegas, NV). Expressions of condolences and other family wishes may be sent directly to the funeral home in care of the Haywood Family.

Helen Haywood

May 22, 1944 - August 8, 2023