Nancy Sue Helm

Nancy Sue Helm died on May 17, 2023, after a courageous 3 ½ year battle with breast cancer in Austin. Born in McAllen, Texas, on February 14, 1952, she was the youngest child of Alfred Paul Helm, Sr. and Jeanette Donley Helm. In her first year of life, she was paralyzed by encephalitis and not expected to live. With great determination, Nancy defied the odds and learned to walk and talk after six years of intense therapy.

After graduation from Richardson (TX) High School, Nancy attended Dallas College. She worked in food services through most of her career, including positions with Dell Seton Medical Center at UT Austin, Brackenridge Hospital, Westminster Manor, UT J.J. Pickle Research Campus, and others.

Nancy is survived by her brother Alfred Paul Helm, Jr. and his wife, Lynn of Sugar Land; and their sons Kyle Paul Helm and his wife, Marissa of San Antonio and Eric Oestreich and his wife, Chelsi of Sugar Land; and her sister Patricia Helm Smith and her husband, David of Austin; and their daughter Kathryn Tylutki and her husband Nicholas of Arlington, VA. Six young great-nieces and great-nephews brought her considerable pleasure and funny stories as she watched them grow. She is also survived by wonderful friends in the Austin area, California, North Carolina, and Illinois who gave her love, strength, and support.

One dear friend related his experience with Nancy: “She had been such a special person in my life and has taught me many lessons, especially about patience, tolerance, and acceptance. I have deficits in all three! But less so now, thanks to her. I treasure our conversations and all the laughter.” Nancy seems to have brought joy and enthusiasm to every person she met.

Nancy’s family would like to extend our thanks to the outstanding medical team at Texas Oncology—Austin North led by Dr. Allison Gorrebeeck, and to the compassionate staff at Hospice Austin’s Christopher House.

A Celebration of Life for family and friends is being planned, and plans will be available from Weed Corley Fish Funeral Home.

Always on our minds. Forever in our hearts.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.wcfishnorth.com for the Helm family.