Avery Helm, 77, of Columbia, passed away Thursday, May 18, 2017 at T.J. Health Columbia Emergency Room after several months illness. He was born on Oct. 31, 1939 in Columbia and was the son of the late William Thomas and Esther Keith Helm. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Etta Mae Keith Helm on Dec. 29, 1984; two brothers, Edmond Helm and Wayne Helm; two sisters Joan Carter and Anna Lee Helm; and two grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Wanda Wooldridge Helm of Russell Springs; three sons, Lynn Helm and wife Lucy of Columbia, Darrell Helm and wife Tammy of Breeding and Kelin Helm and wife Peggy of Columbia; two daughters, Della Mae Murrell, who was his caregiver, and husband Junior of Columbia and Diane Gaskins and husband Ricky of Greensburg. Thirteen grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews also survive. He had attended the former Community Church in Columbia and was a farmer. Funeral service was Sunday, May 21 at Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home with Bro. Wayne Keith officiating and interment in Columbia Cemetery. Pallbearers were Jonathan Gaskins, Josh Gaskins, Eric Helm, Jimmy Helm, William Helm and Mark Yarberry. Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home was in charge of funeral arrangements. Visit www.stottsphelpsmcquearyfh.com.
