Robert Douglas Helms

Robert Douglas “Shad” Helms, 89, of Morganton, passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.

Shad was born October 14, 1936 in Burke County and was the son of the late William Jethro Helms and Rose Frye Helms. He was an avid sports person, devoted to the Atlanta Braves.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers, Bill Helms of Morganton and Jimmy Helms of Drexel.

He is survived by his wife of sixty-seven years, Shirley Keller Helms of the home; daughters, Daphne Helms of Morganton, and Licata Wilson and husband Stacy of Raymondville, MO; and sister-in-law, Dorthea “Dot” Helms of Morganton.

A graveside service will be held at a later date at Burke Memorial Park. Please check back for updates.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to the Javan Keller Memorial Scholarship Fund, ℅ Jeanne Whisnant, PO Box 2566, Morganton, NC 28680, or to the your local youth sports team.

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory in Valdese is assisting the family with arrangements.