Martha Roper Helms “Sissy”, 81, flew into the arms of Jesus on Saturday, September 2, 2023, surrounded by her family. Born in Burke County, Martha was born on August 3, 1942, to the late Willy and Minnie Roper.
In addition to her parents, Martha is preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy “Gravy” Helms, and her brother, William “Bud” Roper.
Martha was a faithful member of Drexel First Baptist Church where she enjoyed being part of the J.O.Y. group, singing in the choir and making meals for her church family.
Martha made a life keeping children and through her home daycare touched many lives over the years. Martha was also a dedicated employee of Walmart, where she worked for 17 years.
There are many memories of Sissy but her family’s favorites include making large family meals cooked out of love, making extremely sweet, sweet tea, playing arcade games, and organizing nail appointments and family vacations. Martha was also a diehard Tarheel fan and enjoyed watching them play.
Martha leaves behind her four children Sarah Heavner and husband Ronnie of Drexel, William “Art” Helms and wife Amy of Valdese, Judy Webb and husband Donnie of
Morganton, and Jeff Helms, of Drexel. Sissy was a proud “MawMaw” to four grandchildren- Michael Heavner, Greg Heavner, Anna Lowman and husband Brian, and Austin Helms who she called her “Little Buddy”. She also leaves behind three great grandchildren- Luke, Brooks and Addy Rose Lowman.
The family would like to thank Blue Ridge Community Action (Adult Day Services) , UNC Health Blue Ridge, Tony from Handi-Care of Drexel, and Special friends- Diane, Jean and Pam and Amorem of Burke County for their love , patience and service to Martha in her final years, months and days.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Blue Ridge Community Action (Adult Day Services) to assist in their activities at 800 North Green Street, Morganton, NC 28655.
The family will receive friends at Drexel First Baptist Church on Wednesday, September 6th, 2023 from 2-4 p.m. . A private graveside service will be held at Burke Memorial Park.
Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory is assisting the Helms family.
Eddie and I send our love and sincere condolences to all the family. We pray for The Lord’s peace to comfort you.
ADC and other BRCA staff are mourning the loss of Ms. Martha, and want to thank her family for trusting us with her care for the past two years. Take care and know she is still loved and thought about here daily. -Brittany Correa, Administrative Assistant at BRCA
So sorry about the loss of Martha. Prayers for all the family. She was a very loving person.
So sorry for your loss, I can remember her coming to get her nails done all the time when I was doing nails. She will be deeply missed.