Ralph Ward Helms, 74, passed away Wednesday, February 4, 2015. He was born in Union County, NC on October 31, 1940 son of the late Zeb Ward and Beatrice Furr Helms. A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 7, 2015 at 11:00 AM in Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends from 9:30 until 10:45 AM prior to the service on Saturday at the church. Mr. Helms was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Elaine Ashley Helms. He is survived by his sons, Ralph “Buzzy” Helms (Tammy) and Garrett Wynne Helms (Robin), sister, Carol Reeder (Arthur) all of Monroe, grandchildren, Kayla, Quinton, Kasey, Gavin and Sheldon Helms. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church, 1712 Carmel Church Rd., Monroe, NC 28112. Gordon Funeral Service is caring for the Helms family. Online condolences may be made at www.gordonfuneralservice.com