Ray D. Helms Sr.

Ray Douglas Helms, Sr., 86, of Aldersgate, Charlotte left this earthly home for his heavenly home on February 4, 2013. He attended Tech High School and was married to his sweetheart, Martha Wright (Mot) Helms for 69 years who survives him. They were blessed with two children; a daughter, Judy Helms McCorkle and a son, Ray Douglas (Doug) Helms, Jr. Ray is also survived by three grandchildren, Reese A. Jamison IV (Chris), Robyn Jamison Karstrom (Mike) and Rori Jamison Burke (Mike) and eight great grandchildren.

Ray was born May 15, 1926 to William Gabe Helms and Mary Leota Helms who preceded him in death. He was also predeceased by one sister, Eloise Helms Campbell and five brothers; Harold, Reverend Guy, Felix, Dewey and Leland Helms. He is survived by one sister-in-law, Joyce Huffstetler Helms. He is also survived by a special family friend, Donna Tutterow Dendy and loving friend and caregiver Gladys Dulin.

Ray was a member of University City United Methodist Church (formally Belmont Park United Methodist Church) for 66 years. He served his church in many capacities, most notably as Superintendent of the Intermediate Department of Boys and Girls. He served on many Boards and Committees. He was presented a Life Membership Pin for his service in the United Methodist Men. He was a member of the Wesley Fellowship Class. He was a proud veteran of World War II having served in the Pacific.

The service to honor his life will be 3:00 PM Thursday, February 7, 2013 at University City United Methodist Church, 3835 W. T. Harris Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28269.

A visitation will be held from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM Thursday, February 7, 2013 at the church. Interment will follow in Sharon Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts to be made to: Aldersgate Financial Assistance Program, 3800 Shamrock Drive, Charlotte, NC 28741 and/or University City United Methodist Church at the above address.