James Douglas Helmer

James passed away suddenly on Friday, September 9, 2011 at the age of 74. He was born and raised in Watonga. Oklahoma. He graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1958 where he was a member of the honor society of Phi Kappa-Phi. After 2 years service in the military, where he was stationed at Fort Leonardwood, Mo., he went on to Mississippi State University where he obtained his PhD in Agronomy/Seed Tettology.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Iris, and his mother and stepfather Mollie and Frank Whitely.

He is survived by three daughters, Tina Spooner, Debbie Linville and her husband Joe, and Tara Beach. He leaves behind 8 grandchildren, James Tucker, Christopher Tucker, Ashley Romero and her husband Joey, Connor Linville, Nicholas Linville, Abigail Linville, Michael Beach and Gregory Beach and one great grandchild Valkyrie Romero. He also leaves behind his brother Bud and his sisters Betty, Dorothy Lou and Jeannie and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition, Richard and Ruffin, his two furry friends who will miss him terribly.

Funeral service will be held at Northpointe Community Church on Friday, September 16, at 10:00 am. Interment at Fresno Memorial Gardens.

Remembrances may be made to the Fresno Rescue Mission or Northpointe Church.