James Allen Helms

James Allen Helms Sr., 73, of Kannapolis has reached the end of his journey on earth. James was born in Concord, NC as the youngest of eight children to Vance E. Helms and Edna Helms. He graduated from Northwest Cabarrus High School in 1970 and entered into service of his country in the US Army. James completed his basic training at Fort Dix, NJ and was stationed at both Fort Lewis, WA and Fort Bragg, NC. During his service to our country James received the National Service Award, Mechanics Badge, and Expert Marksman with the M-16.

James married the love of his life, Kristi, on September 17, 1972, being blessed with 53 years of marriage. James retired from the Charlotte Mecklenburg Postal System after 32 years of service. He was a long-time member of the Enochville Fire Department becoming the first volunteer to earn Fire Fighter 2 Certification. James also earned two Associate Degrees: one in Postal management and the other in Business Administration. He was a huge fan of the North Carolina Tarheels, New York Yankees, and Carolina Panthers. James loved his country, his family, and ‘eating out.’

He is survived by his wife Kristi Helms of Kannapolis, three sons, James (Rusty) Helms Jr. and wife Ellen of Concord, Larry Helms and wife Tiffany of Fort Lawn, SC, and Chris Helms of Kannapolis. He is also survived by his four grandchildren: Brittany Helms, T.J. Cochran, Abigail Helms and Rachel Helms (Pawpaw’s girls). Brothers Vance E. Helms Jr. and wife Francis, Harry Wayne Helms and wife Cathy, sisters Lena Gillon and husband Harry, and Sue Sullivan along with many nephews and nieces.

He is preceded in death by his parents Vance and Edna Helms, brothers Ken Helms and wife Gloria, Hugh Helms and wife Joyce, sister Brenda Webster, nephews Ricky Helms, Cliff Webster Jr. (Cliffie), and Kevin Helms, niece Rene Hendricks.

The family will receive visitors at Whitley’s Funeral Home in Kannapolis on Sunday, September 7th from 4-6pm. The funeral service will be held at River Rock Church, 6320 Davidson Hwy., Concord, NC on Monday, September 8th beginning at 4pm with graveside to follow at Carolina’s Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make a contribution to In Pursuit of Jesus Ministries (inpursuitofjesus.com).