Helen Julia Haywood

   Helen Julia Haywood, 76, of Carmi, passed away Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, Indiana. She was born January 15, 1950, in Centerville, Illinois, the daughter of William “Bill” and Cecelia (Mattson) Barbre.

   Helen graduated from Carmi Township High School in 1967. She was a woman of strong Christian faith who loved the Lord and was devoted to her church and to helping others. In her younger years, Helen was a talented artist who especially enjoyed drawing and painting. She also had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to laugh and joke with her grandchildren, who loved nothing more than getting her to laugh. Her big, unmistakable laugh, her warmth, and the joy she brought to her family will be deeply missed.

   Above all, Helen loved her family and especially cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren.

   Helen is survived by her two sons, Matt (Kimberly) Haywood of Chatham, Illinois, and Mark Haywood of Evansville, Indiana; her grandchildren, Macen Haywood, Max Haywood, Bobby Gordon, Amelia Gordon, Baylee Haywood, Garrett Haywood, Kendyl Haywood, Finley Haywood, and Griffin Haywood; and her siblings, William (Barbara) Barbre Jr., Pat (Tom) Dillard, and Sue Barbre-Heilscher, all of Cape Coral, Florida.

   She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Cecelia Barbre, and her brothers, Earl and Albert “Al” Barbre.

   A private graveside service will be held at Centerville Cemetery.

   In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Helen’s memory to the Egyptian Health Department. Contributions will be accepted at Campbell Funeral Home or may be mailed to 609 W. Main St., Carmi, IL 62821.