Hazel Marie Johnson Helms

Hazel Marie Johnson Helms, 95, of Marion, departed this life in the early morning hours of Friday, February 9, 2024 at UNC Health Blue Ridge.

A native of McDowell County, Hazel was born June 28, 1928 to the late Jobie Johnson, Sr. and Bessie Davis Johnson. She was also preceded in death by her husband, James Earl Helms; a daughter, Marie Ollis; and her six brothers and sisters.

Hazel retired from Marion Manufacturing. She was a longtime member of over 50 years at Yancey Street Baptist Church. She was a Godly woman who loved gospel music, which she often sang with her family. Hazel loved her family and was very involved in their lives. She will be remembered as a loving mother and grandmother as well as an excellent cook. Her family will fondly remember her wonderful fried chicken, country-style steak, and homemade biscuits for years to come. One of Hazel’s favorite pastimes was watching the Atlanta Braves. She will be missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by five children, Kay Whittington (H.A.), Greg Helms (Tonya), Lisa Helms, Chris Helms (Norma), and Scott Helms (Angela); twenty-three grandchildren; twenty-one great grandchildren; nine great-great grandchildren and one on the way.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Yancey Street Baptist Church with Pastor Dean Owenby and Dr. Eric Grindstaff officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow the service at McDowell Memorial Park.