Helen Wood Hanger

As part of a military family, Helen spent her childhood living in various places around the world along with her loving sister, Patsy Harrell.

She met the love of her life, Malcolm Hanger, at the Memorial Youth Center in Columbia, South Carolina. She graduated from Airport High School in 1972 and was married on August 25, 1973 at Westside Baptist Church in West Columbia, South Carolina. Throughout their 50-year marriage, Malcolm demonstrated an unwavering love for his bride, who he always called “Boop-Boop.” Together, they had two children: Mason Hanger and Amber Collins (David).

Helen had a love of adventure and travel. She spent several joyful years working alongside her son, transporting rescue dogs to their adoptive homes located across the United States and into Canada. Some of her most cherished moments were spent with her daughter’s family in their favorite vacation spot, Anna Maria Island, Florida.

Her greatest honor in life was being a “Mimi” to her grandchildren, Alex Collins Spires (Blayne), Carolina Ivy Collins, Samuel “Sammy” David Collins IV, Ethan Luis Hanger, and Lexi Augusto Hanger.

After living near the beach for several years, Malcolm and Helen moved back to Lexington to be closer to their loving children and grandchildren. She enjoyed making fun memories with her family: cookie decorating, snow chasing, slumber parties, tie-dye creations, beach getaways, birthday celebrations, coffee dates, Disney vacations, and even a Harry Styles concert.

She leaves behind several nieces and nephews in addition to a very special family: Brenda, Josh, Danielle, Brooke, and Nikki.

The family would like to thank everyone who was a part of Helen’s journey the past 27 months, including those at Lexington Medical Center, Wellmore of Lexington, NHC Healthcare Lexington, and Lexington Community Hospice House. During her time in their care, Helen became lovingly known as “Mimi” to the numerous doctors, nurses, staff members, and therapists whose lives she touched.

A visitation will be held for Helen at 3 p.m. on Sunday, February 18, 2024 at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, 503 North Lake Drive, Lexington, South Carolina, 29072, followed by a 5 p.m. funeral service at the same location. Guests are invited to wear Helen’s favorite color, yellow, to honor her memory.