Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Matriarch

Greenwood, SC – Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Matriarch

Helen Wash Douglas, a cherished matriarch of the community, passed away peacefully at the age of 96 on Saturday, June 14, 2025. Widowed after 68 years of marriage to her husband, William G. “Bill” Douglas, Helen’s legacy continues through her family and many friends who treasured her guidance and warmth.

Born in Edgefield, SC, Helen was the daughter of the late Julian Talbert Wash Sr. and Rebecca Whatley Wash. Throughout her life, she remained deeply connected to her Southern roots, making a home in Greenwood, SC, where she embraced her role as a devoted homemaker.

Faith, Family, and Community Involvement

Helen placed great importance on her faith and family, forming the cornerstone of her life. She was an active member of New Market Baptist Church, where she served as a Children’s Sunday School Teacher. Her devotion to nurturing the spiritual growth of children in the community underscored her commitment to building a strong foundation for future generations.

Aside from her spiritual contributions, Helen was known for her green thumb and exceptional culinary skills. She enjoyed gardening, which brought her joy and allowed her to share fresh produce with family and friends. Her baking and cooking skills were legendary among those who had the pleasure of enjoying her creations.

In addition to her human family, Helen had a special fondness for her Pomeranians, Penny and Paige, who predeceased her and were a significant part of her life.

Family and Survivors

Helen is survived by her brother, William Wash of Edgefield, SC, and her sister, Frances Wash Jones of Rock Hill, SC. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who will remember her fondly. She was preceded in death by her husband Bill, as well as two brothers, J.T. Wash, Jr. and Harold Wash, and a sister, Carrie Mae Smalley.

Service Details

A celebration of Helen’s life is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at New Market Baptist Church, with Rev. Stanley Sprouse officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather for a reception following the service at the church. A private entombment will take place at Oakbrook Memorial Park Mausoleum. Pallbearers will include her nephews: Danny Smalley, Wayne Smalley, Gary Wash, Barry Wash, and Jim Douglas.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to New Market Baptist Church, located at 906 Ninety Six Highway, Greenwood, SC 29646, or to Hospice & Palliative Care of the Piedmont at 408 W. Alexander Ave., Greenwood, SC 29646, in honor of Helen’s enduring spirit and compassion for others.

Gratitude to Caregivers

The family expresses special gratitude to the caregivers who provided Helen with exceptional support in her later years: Belle Cooper, Stacey Burnett, Tamiko Holladay, and Shirley Jones. Their dedication made a lasting impact during her life.

Blyth Funeral Home & Cremation Services is assisting the Wash family during this difficult time. Helen Wash Douglas will be remembered for her unwavering commitment to her family, her church, and her community, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication.