David Helmes, a loving gentleman, father, and uncle, was born on August 14, 1932 in Haleburg, Alabama, as the second of five children to James and Beadie Helmes.

When he came of age, as the oldest son, David ventured to Florida to work, and from there moved on to Delaware, eventually settling in New Jersey. He worked for Harris Steel as a welder.

David settled in New York and married Willie Mae in 1965, and from this union was born Jacquenette “Jackie”, one of the greatest loves of his life.

He eventually moved back to New Jersey, and in the mid 1970s met his life partner and best friend, Pennina “Dee” Hardy. They made a joyous life in Plainfield, where he was welcomed and loved by her family, the Alstons; and enjoyed co-hosting many fun gatherings. They retired in 1993 to Orlando, FL and moved across the street from his beloved and only brother, Joseph “Joe” Helmes. Within months of losing both Dee and Joe, David made his transition on November 11, 2017. He told a nurse around 2:00 that morning “I’m going home”, which he did in his sleep by sunrise, to join Dee and Joe. Additionally, David was preceded in death by his sisters, Amy Ruth Brown and Juanita Henderson.

David leaves to cherish his loving memories: His loving and devoted daughter, Jacquenette (Mark) Hughes, his grandson Jalon Hughes; his loving sister, Bernice McAllister; and his devoted sister-in-law, Essie Helmes. He was beloved by a host of nieces and nephews and the Alston Family who actively shared their love through calls, visits, cards, thoughts, and prayers.  David had a beautiful smile and easy-going spirit that will be greatly missed. 
 

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