HELEN GREGORY HELMS, age 85, passed away on Friday, January 8, 2010 after a period of failing health. She was born on August 31, 1924 in Keenes, IL, the daughter of Fred Franklin Gregory and Lula Katie Marshall Gregory who preceded her in passing.
She married Lawrence Helms on June 2, 1946. She was very patient during her illness. She was a loving mother, kind and gentle in all her ways, with a cheerful disposition. Helen appreciated the efforts of her loved ones to help keep her comfortable during preparation for her final journey. In the last few days she was able to have all her family and loved ones around her, and enjoyed the holding of their hands and the hugs and kisses from all. She is preceded in death by her husband Lawrence Helms, three brothers, Orlie, Elmer, and Earl, and three sisters, Gladys, Gertrude, and Cynthia.
Helen is survived by her younger sister Verna Gregory Woolever and five children:
Pamela Helms Bauer, and her children, Kimberly, Ronald, and James.
Robert "Bob" Helms, his wife Kimberly, his children Nathan, and Brianne, and stepchildren Candace and Leo Lothson.
Nancy Helms Shelton and her children Casey Shelton Garza, Benjamin, and Angie Meade.
Jean Helms-Finlayson, her husband Steven Finlayson and their daughter Amie Finlayson Wareing.
Laura Helms Bradford, her husband Charles Bradford, and their children, Lindsey and Nicholas.
13 Grandchildren, Kim, Ron, Jamie, Nathan, Brianne, Candace, Leo, Angie, Casey, Ben, Amie, Lindsey, and Nick
9 Great grandchildren, Lisa, Katie, Jessica, Hillary, Landon, Taylor, Alex, Cody, and Austin.
6 Great-great grandchildren, Alexis, Ethan, Kaylea, Morgan, Bailey, and Carmela.
Many nieces and nephews, but especially Betty Lu Woods, and Kay Manring.

Helen retired after working for 25 years at Caron International, she had several jobs after retiring, her favorite one was working at the Creston Library, where she retired in November 2008. She is a member of the Faith Lutheran Church.
A funeral service will be held at 11:30 AM on Tuesday, January 12, 2010 at the Faith Lutheran Church, 14206 Flagg Rd., Rochelle with Rev. Steve Dow officiating. Visitation will be held on Tuesday at the Church from 9:30 to 11:30 AM prior to the Funeral. Burial at Trinity Memory Gardens. A memorial has been established to the Faith Lutheran Church or Creston Library.