Helen Gaskins

Helen L. Gaskins, aged 89, peacefully passed away on Friday, August 4, 2023, surrounded by her family at her home in Hahira. She was born in Berrien County on December 20, 1933, to the late Christopher C. Willis and Leona Lupo Willis. Helen grew up in Willacoochee and completed her education at Willacoochee High School. On August 11, 1951, she married the love of her life, Wayne Wallace Gaskins, and together they built a beautiful family. Over the years, they resided in various cities including Eatonton, Willacoochee, Adel, and finally settled in Valdosta in the late 1950s.

Helen dedicated herself to raising her children, while also working at Owens Illinois in the bag plant sewing for more than 20 years. Later, she joined SAFT where she played a vital role in battery manufacturing for nearly two decades until her retirement. Family meant everything to Helen, and she cherished spending time with her loved ones, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She found solace and joy in tending to her yard and indulging in occasional fishing trips.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Jackie Gaskins Atkins, of Atlanta; son, Wayne Wallace Gaskins, Jr., of Hahira; daughter and son-in-law, Terri and Tony Walker, of Valdosta; grandchildren, Randy (& Amber) Atkins of Chapin, NC, John (& Amy) Atkins of Powder Springs, GA, Erica Gaskins of Valdosta, Kearston Gaskins of Douglas, GA, Griffin Gaskins of Douglas, GA, and Bryce Walker of Valdosta; sister, Shirley (& Ray) Ambros of The Villages, FL; brother, Harry Willis of Casper, WY; great-grandchildren, Zaiden Gaskins, Leiloni Gaskins, Christian, Caleb, Caden, and Cameron Atkins, Addison, and Ashtyn Atkins; and a special cousin, Jerry (& Terri) Lupo. Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Wayne Wallace Gaskins, Sr.; son, John Christopher Gaskins; granddaughter, Sydni Ashton Walker; son-in-law, Harold Atkins; and brothers, Randall Willis and Coy Willis.

A private memorial service to honor Helen's life will take place at a later time. lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to Hospice of South Georgia. To offer condolences, please visit the online obituary at www.mclanecares.com.

Carson McLane Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the funeral arrangements.