Opal Helms

She was born May 16, 1939, in Anderson County, SC to the late Grover Ray and Sallie Mae Chitwood.

She was a joyful spirit who loved to travel and brought warmth wherever she went.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in passing by her husband, Joe Neal Helms; brothers, Harold, Charles and Donnie; sisters, Hazel, Leona, Rachel, Ruth, Joyce, and Jean.

She is survived by daughters, Pam VanHook of Tampa, FL and Nancy Hurley (Jim) of Gastonia, NC and her beloved Onie; grandchildren, Joey Helms, Rebecca VanHook, Ashley Christensen; great grandchildren, Allie, Gavin, Adan, Laci, Nylah, Emerie and Eli; sisters, Carolyn “Cookie” Peacock (Jerry) and Linda Pipes (Glen); and many nieces and nephews.

There will be no formal services at this time. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date in Gastonia.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to a charity of your choice in Opal’s name.

Arrangements are being handled by Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park. Her final resting place will be at Hillsboro Memorial Gardens in Brandon, FL.