ATLANTA — The City of Atlanta is mourning the loss of a beloved community member on Monday.
Helen Brown Harden, the founder of the restaurant Bankhead Seafood, has died.
"For over 50 years, she gifted our community a culinary treasure that grew into a beloved institution. As we recently celebrated Mike and TI's reopening of Bankhead Seafood, we are reminded of Ms. Harden’s contribution to our city," Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said in a release. "Her legacy will endure, not only through her food but also in the hearts of all who were touched by her vision and dedication to serving our community.”
Bankhead Seafood was a legendary Atlanta restaurant for decades before it closed in 2018. That is until rappers T.I. and Killer Mike, along with other community members, got to work on a mission to bring it back.
The rappers purchased the property in 2018 and initially announced plans to rebuild it in January 2020 — just months before the COVID-19 pandemic forced a shutdown across the country. The Atlanta natives then secured a million-dollar loan in 2023 to revive the restaurant.
The restaurant officially reopened just last month.
On Facebook, the restaurant's current ownership posted a moving tribute to the woman - known in the neighborhood as "Mama" - whose hard work, spirit, and great food started it all.
"For over 50 years, Mrs. Harden nourished the city of Atlanta, both with her cooking and her boundless spirit. Her unwavering dedication and compassion touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her," the post read in part.
The restaurant noted that it is "committed to carrying her vision forward" and said it will share news regarding her memorial service on its social media pages.
"As we celebrate her remarkable life and mourn her passing," the restaurant's owners noted, "let us hold tightly to the joy, love, and inspiration she brought to so many."
Click here to read the full statement.