Mary W. “Fran” Helms, 71, of Roanoke, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, July 28, at her home surrounded by her loving family. Fran was born on Sunday, February 19, 1950, to the late William E. And Frances Mae Womack in Craig County. She was a 1968 graduate of Andrew Lewis High School. Fran enjoyed collecting miniature figurines, decorative pitchers, stoneware, swans and ballerinas.
Her faith was of utmost importance to her, she was a member of both the Dale Ridge and Star City Church of Christ. Following a 20-year career, she retired from the U. S. Postal Service. Fran was a wonderful wife, marvelous mother and her enjoyment was found in spending time with her precious family.
She is survived by her husband, James R. Helms, Jr., daughter, Ruth Carter and husband, Michael; son, Jim Helms; grandchildren, Channing Carter, Kayla Carter, Noah Helms, Elisha Carter; brother-in-law, John Helms; special family friends, Judy Carter, who was also her daughters’ mother-in-law, Danny and Margaret Sprouse and their family, Jason, Crissy, and Brynn Gentry, and many other loving friends.
A celebration of her life was held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, August 1, at the John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem with her son-in-law, Michael Carter, officiating.
Friends visited with the family from 2 p.m. until the service hour at the funeral home.
The family wishes to send a special thank you to the kind and compassionate staff of Good Samaritan Hospice, especially to Maegan.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.johnmoakey.com.
