William "Billy Bob" R. Helms

Herrin- William R. Billy Bob Helms, age 87, of Herrin, passed away at 8:10pm on Tuesday, July 27, 2010 at Shawnee Christian Nursing Center in Herrin. William was born in Herrin on December 13, 1922, the son of Hosea and Florence (Leamon) Helms. He married Betty Keeling in Chicago on February 17, 1945. Together, they have shared sixty-five years of marriage. She survives in Herrin. Billy Bob was a member of the Laborers International Union for fifty-five years and belonged to the Local 773. He was a member of the Herrin VFW, Herrin American Legion, Eagles of Zeigler, and the Christopher Columbus Club. He was a World War II Veteran, having received an honorable discharge in 1945. Billy Bob was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed spending time with his friends and his pet, Sugar. Survivors include his wife of 65 years- Betty Helms of Herrin, IL Daughter and Son-in-Law- Beverly and Hal Reynolds of Marion, IL Daughter and Son-in-Law- Glenda and Curt Spaven of Freeman Spur, IL 3 Grandsons- Bill Reynolds of Marion, IL David Reynolds of Marion, IL Jon Eric and Raelynn Reynolds of Marion, IL 3 Granddaughters- Kim and Aaron Wolfe of West Frankfort, IL Kristy Maurizio and James Shimkus of West Frankfort, IL Kelly Spaven of West Frankfort, IL 9 great grandchildren Sister- Janie Curry of Johnston City, IL Several nieces and nephews Special Friends- Ed Fryslie of Freeman Spur, IL Jerry Potts of Herrin, IL Walt Troeler of West Salem, IL Steve Shoemake of Herrin, IL He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers-John and Paul Helms, and a sister- Mary Stewart. As per his wishes, his body will be donated to medical science. Memorial services will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, July 31,2010 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin with Rev. Don Colson officiating. For those who prefer, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home; 201 S 13th Street; Herrin, IL 62948. For more information, or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.hughesfuneralhomes.com