Merle Collins Helms

Merle Ardath Collins Helms, 89, of Monroe, passed away Monday, August 12, 2024 at Novant Health Mint Hill Medical Center in Charlotte.

Merle was born December 19, 1934 in North Carolina to the late John Pryor Collins and Laura Blanch Collins. She was also preceded in death by her loving husband of 68 years, Jackson Dewey Helms; her son, Jackson Helms Jr.; as well as 3 brothers and 2 sisters.

A Celebration of Merle's life will be held on Thursday, August 15, 2024 at 11:00 am at Shiloh Advent Christian Church, 3601 Sikes Mill Road, Monroe, NC 28110, officiated by Rev. Travis Hutcheson. 

Merle was a long time member of Shiloh Advent Christian Church. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She had a great love of gardening and reading. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Survivors include daughters, Mary Kramer of MI and Gema Humphries of Stanfield; son, Grant Helms of Kershaw, SC; sisters, Becky Daniels of KS, Laura Lee Kimbrell of SC, Blanche Vinson of GA, Diane McBroom of AL and Zelda Ghent of SC; 11 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Novant Health Hospice, PO Box 33549, Charlotte, NC 28233.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Midland is serving the Helms family.