Heath R. Helms

Heath R. Helms, age 90, of Indian Trail, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2015. He was born in Monroe, N.C., to the late E. L and Venie Helms, Sr. on November 11, 1924. Heath was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Willie Mae Crooke Helms, son, Donald Heath Helms, and nine siblings. He is survived by his wife, Rheba Haywood Helms; daughter, Nancy Helms Bartles and husband Carl; Diane Sprinkle Helms, wife of the late Don Helms; son, David L. Helms and wife Joy; daughter, Linda Helms Smith and husband Tim; son, Douglas O. Helms and wife Cindy; seventeen grandchildren, Shannon, Chad, Mandy, Jennifer, Melissa, Brandon, Donese, Drew, Brett, Josh, Katie, Jacob, Carter, Jacob, Kaitlyn, Justin, and Samantha; and nine great grandchildren.

Heath was a graduate of Unionville High School. He served in the US Army during World War II and was awarded the Silver Star and two Bronze Stars. He was a master carpenter and continued to create and innovate well into retirement. He served as a deacon of Benton’s Crossroads Baptist Church, with a deep love and loyalty for his church home. Heath was a champion of the “underdog”, servant of those in need, and proponent of peace in the world.

The family will receive visitors from 6:00-8:00 pm on Sunday, September 20 at McEwen Funeral Home in Monroe. A service to celebrate Heath’s life will be held at 2:00 pm on Monday, September 21 at Benton Crossroads Baptist Church. Burial to follow at Benton’s Crossroads Cemetery. Memorial Contributions can be given to Benton’s Crossroads Baptist Church or the American Heart Association.