Phyllis Mary Helms passed away peacefully on Monday, August 16, 2021, surrounded by family and loved ones. Phyllis was born January 18, 1948, in San Diego, California, to Herman and Florence Sipes. She and her two older brothers, Carl and Richard, grew up in San Diego where Herman was stationed in the Navy. She and her mother, Florence, were active members of St. Pius Catholic Church, across the street from the family's home. She and her brothers graduated from Castle Park High School.
Phyllis met Rodney Helms, who was also stationed in San Diego in the Navy, and they were married in 1967. They moved to Dothan, Alabama, where they raised three children: Deborah, Catherine, and Rodney II. Phyllis was a business owner, with her husband and in-laws, operating "Helms Gun Bait and Tackle" for over 30 years. She was a Girl Scout troop leader for her girls' troop. She enjoyed fishing, cross stitch crafts, and gift-giving. She loved being a mother, and later a grandmother to Cassandra, Kasey, Brittany, and Ian.
After her husband died in 1998, Phyllis continued to run the business until she moved back to San Diego in 2004 to care for her mother.
In 2007 Phyllis moved to Pine River, MN, where she made many memories with family and friends, including her first Minnesota winter! She was often found either playing spider solitaire or cooking. She collected new and old recipes, cookbooks, and every kitchen gadget known to man. She is most remembered for her traditional Southern cooking.
Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Herman (US Navy) and Florence; her brothers, Carl (US Marine Corps) and Richard (US Army); and husband, Rodney Helms Sr. (US Navy). She is survived by her children: Deborah (Charles Fye), Catherine (Ken Brown), and Rodney (Joan) Helms; her grandchildren: Cassandra Fye, Kasey Helms, Brittany Fye, and Ian Fye; and many other beloved family members and friends.
Phyllis' service will be held Saturday, August 21 at 1:00 pm, at the Kline Funeral Home in Pine River with burial to follow at the Pine Ridge Cemetery, Pine River.
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