Virginia Darlous Franklin Helms

Virginia Darlous Franklin Helms, 83, of Granite Falls, went home to be with her Lord on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 following a period of declining health.

Virginia was born September 26, 1942 in Avery County, a daughter of the later Zeb Scott and Esta Lena Woodie Franklin.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in passing by two sisters, Lila Jean Franklin Daniels and Denise Darlene Franklin Mitchell; a niece, Diana Franklin; and a nephew, Mark Benfield.

Virginia was devoted to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She loved everyone because of the work He had done in her, and she spent her last day on earth preaching to those she encountered about His transformative power. She was ready to bring everyone home with her. Her love of people led Virginia to a career as a CNA and in-home caregiver for many years. She also deeply loved her grandbabies, and her fur babies were her constant companions. The simple things in life brought her joy, and she could often be found watching the birds and squirrels from the comfort of her couch.

Those left to cherish her memory include her siblings, of whom she was the oldest, Lahoma “Sissy” Hedrick, Lambert Franklin (Terri), Linda Clontz, Kathy Dellinger (Larry), Larry Franklin (Fran), and Dean Franklin (Toni); six children, Dwight Barrier, Michael Barrier (Connie), Joy Johnson (Kenny), Robin Hollar, Hansel Helms, Jr., (Dorothy), and Robert Shannon Helms; twelve grandchildren, Matt Huffman (Taylor), Mark Huffman (Sarah), Tyler Chrisco, Joshua Barrier, Sami Barrier, Hannah Barrier, Megan Ladd (Josh), Sierra “Nacole” Smith (Walter), Alex Helms (Ashley), Reese “David” Helms (Emily), Miranda Elliot (Jordan), and Heather Bentley (Ken); nineteen greatgrandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and her fur babies, Kirby, Max, CJ, Dolly, Raven, Toby, Beau, Oreo, Zoe, Holly, and Jenny, as well as extended family in David Hollar, who loved her dearly.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Chapel of Heritage Funeral Service at a date to be announced with Pastor Rudy Hayes officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Samaritan’s Purse at PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607 or https://www.samaritanspurse.org/.

A Final Celebration of Life will be held later this year at the Franklin Reunion of 2026 in Linville Falls for family.

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory is assisting the Helms family.