James Helms, Sr.

James Philip Helms, Sr., 69, of Mohnton passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 7, 2021 in the Mifflin Center surrounded by his loving family.  Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late G. Edwin and Phyllis (Taylor) Helms.  Jim was the husband of Sharon M. (Cerra) Helms, with whom he shared 49 loving years of marriage.  He was a dedicated member of the Church of Saint Benedict giving selflessly of his time, talent, and treasure. He was a jack of all trades working as a plumber, pipe fitter, water treatment specialist, boiler operator and general maintenance worker.  He relished every opportunity he had to share his knowledge and skills with friends and family.  Everyone, with whom he came into contact, would agree that they learned something from him.  He enjoyed gardening and caring for his pets including guinea hens, cats, and Miniature Schnauzers.

James is survived by his loving wife, Sharon, along with his children, James P. Helms, Jr., husband of Maureen, Katherine A. Bates, wife of Eric, Mary F. Quinn, wife of Adrian, and Elizabeth J. Helms.  Also surviving are his grandchildren, Margo, Colleen, Shannon, Paul, Theresa, Noah, Jane, Peter, Dominic, Michael, and Sophia, and his brothers, G. Edwin Helms, Jr. and Stephen Helms.  James is preceded in death by his daughter, Theresa R. Cutrona and his brother, Charles Helms.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, July 14 at 11:00am in the Church of Saint Benedict, Mohnton to be celebrated by Father John Frink.  The family will receive friends and relatives Tuesday, July 13 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm in Bean Funeral Homes, 129 E. Lancaster Ave., Shillington and Wednesday, July 14 from 10:00am to 11:00am in the Church of Saint Benedict, Mohnton.  Interment will follow the Mass at Gethsemane Cemetery, Reading.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in honor of Mr. James P. Helms, Sr. to the Church of Saint Benedict, 2020 Chestnut Hill Road, Mohnton, PA 19540.  Arrangements have been made by Bean Funeral Homes, Shillington and online condolences may be made at www.beanfuneralhomes.com.