Ellis "Keith" Helms

Ellis "Keith" Helms, age 79, of Swartz Creek, went to be with the Lord peacefully on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at his residence in Swartz Creek, surrounded by his family. A funeral service will take place at 10:00 AM on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Road, Swartz Creek with burial following at Evergreen Cemetery, Grand Blanc. Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Friday, June 5, 2026, at the funeral home. Additional visitation will continue from 9:00 AM until the time of service on Saturday. Those desiring may direct memorial contributions to St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church, the Humane Society of Genesee County, or the Disabled American Veterans.

Keith was born on April 1, 1947, in Gadsden, Alabama, the son of the late R.E. and Eunice (Gladen) Helms. He lived a life marked by dedication, skill, and a generous heart. Throughout his career, Keith distinguished himself as an automotive mechanic at Smitty's Gas Station, where he worked for many years. His passion for craftsmanship extended far beyond the automotive shop; he was also highly talented in home building and remodeling, demonstrating a remarkable aptitude for construction. Keith continued to put his skills to work alongside his son-in-law at MySpace Self Storage and Service Master, where he worked in many capacities, from project manager to maintenance and service specialist, until 2022.

Keith enjoyed the outdoors and especially looked forward to hunting trips up north. He also found great enjoyment in listening to country music and spending time with those he loved. Keith honorably served his country in the United States Army as a sharpshooter, enlisting on August 14, 1970, and receiving an honorable discharge on March 13, 1972. His service was recognized with the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal, reflecting his dedication and exemplary conduct while serving his country.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn "Sue" Clark-Helms; his children, Keith Ellis Helms, Missy Udell, and Eric Parker; and his stepchildren, Gerald "Todd" Clark, Kelly Bruzewski, David (Cathy) Clark, and Jeffrey Clark. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Cordaro Hinkley, Christopher Helms, Nickolas Green, Johnny Green, Michael Clark, Sydney Clark, Jay Bruzewski, Olivia Bruzewski, Matthew Bruzewski, Gaby Clark, David Clark, Alex Clark, and Michael Gomez; and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Kenneth (Lorraine) Helms, Gregory (Barb) Helms, Farrell Helms, and Melissa (Jim) Jones; his sister-in-law, Pam Helms; several special nieces and nephews; and his special nephew, Jason.

In addition to his parents, Keith was preceded in death by his brother, Craig Helms. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of McLaren Hospice and hospice chaplain Adam Doyle for their care, compassion, and support during Keith's final journey. Tributes may be shared atwww.sharpfuneralhomes.com