Helen Celita Kirk Wiggs passed away peacefuly at home on December 2, 2025, at the age of 97.  Helen was born in Summerville, TX, on September 19, 1928, to Herbert and Rosa Kirk.  Helen spent her early years in Teas and California before making Wellington, Ohio, her lifelong home alongside her beloved husband, Louis Fairfax Wiggs (1913- 1995).

Helen was a proud graduate of Prairie View University where she earned her degree in Social Work.  Guided by her deep belief in the power of education, she built a distinguished career in social work and spent 27 years as a dedicated educator – becoming the first African-American teacher in the Black River School District, a milestone that paved the way for generations to follow.

A devoted member of the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Wellington, Helen lived a life grounded in faith, service, and community.  She delighted in participating in local social clubs, tending to her garden, exploring new places through travel, and most of all, celebrating the achievements and joys of her family.

Helen was preceded in death by brothers Lewis and Harry Kirk, and her husband, Louis.  She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory:  her children, Sara Jamison-Ricks and Michael Wiggs, Sr. (Gina), her grandchildren, Natasha Childress (Melvin II), Tiffany Jamison, Savanna Ricks, Michaela Wiggs, and Michael Wiggs, Jr.; great-grandchildren Nadia Jamison, Trinity Jamison, Kayden Childress, and Melvin Childress, III.

Helen's legacy of strength, compassion, and unwavering dedication to education and family will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.

Friends and family will be received on Tuesday December 9, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Helen's residence 279 North Main Street, Wellington. A service will be held Tuesday evening at the First Congregational United Church of Christ, 140 South Main Street, beginning at 5 p.m. A private family burial will take place on Wednesday at Greenwood Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be shared online at www.norton-eastmanfuneralhome.com.