George Mcelroy Helms

Co-owned Blue Diamond Enterprises. George McElroy Helms, 68, of East Washington, died Wednesday, April 5, 2006, in UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh. He was born December 13, 1937, in Richmond, Va., a son of Roy S. and Frances McElroy Helms. Mr. Helms graduated from Osbourn High School, Manassas, Va., in 1955. He served in the National Guard in California and Virginia, receiving an honorable discharge in 1957. He proudly served in the U.S. Army, receiving an honorable discharge in 1963. He was licensed in Virginia from 1960 to 1975 as an insurance agent, real estate agent and tax consultant. On June 4, 1976, he married Sharen Arnold, who survives. They would have celebrated 30 years of marriage. Mr. Helms and his wife established Blue Diamond Enterprises Inc. in 1979. After retiring in 2000, he enjoyed cultivating his talents, including his ability to create detailed woodwork, and landscaped and renovated his home. He joined Washington Lions Club in 1989 and served faithfully as president in 1998-99, receiving an International President Certificate of Appreciation. He was a Melvin Jones Fellow. Mr. Helms will be remembered for his sunny disposition, sense of humor and dedication. He was a cornea donor and bone and tissue donor for Center for Organ Recovery and Education, Pittsburgh. Deceased are his parents and sister. At Mr. Helms' request, there will be no public visitation. Members of Washington Lions Club will hold a memorial celebration of life at 7 p.m. Friday at the home of Mr. Helms, with friends being received there from 7 to 9 p.m. Arrangements are under the direction of William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington.