Helen Hayward, 89, of Portsmouth, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on May 23, 2026.

Born in Portsmouth on February 27, 1937, Helen was the beloved daughter of the late John Horner, Sr., and Mary Sturgill Horner. She was a proud graduate of Glenwood High School, Class of 1955, and a faithful member of Sunshine Church of Christ.

Helen was well known throughout the community for her love of gardening and flowers. Helen and Merritt owned Lady Bug Nursery Greenhouse, where she shared her passion for plants and nature with countless friends and customers over the years. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures — coloring books, reading, crafts, drawing, and spending time outdoors. Helen was an exceptional cook and baker whose meals brought family together, and she especially enjoyed mowing grass and caring for her home and yard.

Above all, Helen cherished her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose kindness, warmth, and caring spirit touched everyone who knew her. She is survived by her son, Barry (Patty) Hayward of Portsmouth; daughters, Vicki (Mark) Ashby of Portsmouth, Amy Dever (Paul Howard) of Minford, and Missy (Mark) Wynn of Portsmouth; sister, Esther Horner of Columbus; grandchildren, Holly Hayward, Chad (Abby) Pierron, Courtney Pierron, Trista (Damon) Jackson, Carrie Wynn (Brandon Ramey), and Paige (Paul) Jacobs; and great-grandchildren, Ford Pierron, Avery Hayward, and Parker and Connor Jacobs.

In addition to her parents, Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Merritt Hayward, and her brother, John Horner, Jr.

Helen’s loving heart, gentle nature, and dedication to her family will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the blessing of knowing her.

Graveside Service will take place Tuesday, May 26, 2026, 11:00 AM, at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Franklin Furnace. Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of D.W. Swick & Son Funeral and Cremation Services in Sciotoville.

Online memories and condolences may be shared at DWSwickFuneralHome.com