Mrs. Helms was the only daughter of the late Rochell Nesbit Gladden and Wilma Bridges Gladden. She graduated from Blacksburg High School, attended Mars Hill College and retired from Leaksville Woolen Mill. Freda enjoyed retirement life on her front patio with good neighbors, family and friends in Palm Bay, Florida prior to returning to her home in Charlotte.
Mrs. Helms was pre-deceased by her husband of sixty years, Albert Leroy Helms, brothers James and Wilton Gladden and grandson Samuel Helms. She is survived by her sons Richard Helms of Rock Hill, SC, and Michael Helms of Charlotte, brother, John Gladden of Palm Bay, Florida, granddaughter, Karen Callihan, great-grandson, Jack Trevor Callihan, sister-in-law, Martha Jean Sigmon and brother-in-law, Kenneth Helms.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, April 27, 2011 at Forest Lawn West Cemetery 4601 Freedom Drive in Charlotte.
