Garrett Helms' Obituary
After a long, courageous battle with childhood cancer, Garrett Andrew Helms passed away on Sunday, October 25th at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with his parents by his side. He leaves behind his parents, Matt and Jenni; and his sister, Wesli. Paternal grandparents, Susan and Richard Helms of Memphis, TN. Uncle Nathan, Aunt Sally and cousin Anna Vail Helms of Memphis, TN. Maternal grandparents, Jane and Paul Gillespie of Bartlett TN. Uncle David, Aunt Andrea and cousins Maybree and Raimey Gillespie of Brentwood, TN. Uncle Travis, Aunt Dixie Harber, and cousins Alic Brigham and Gabriel Harber of Arlington, TN.Garrett was born on May 20, 2003 in Memphis, TN. With an autism diagnosis at two years of age, Garrett’s future seemed limited. Even while struggling with daily challenges, he continued to flourish and make enormous strides year after year. Garrett was a huge fan of the outdoors. He enjoyed bike riding, swimming, boating, and hiking. Although he remained nonverbal in his short life, Garrett spoke to and touched many. His infectious smile and adventurous personality brightened even the darkest of days. Garrett’s flawless spirit will never be forgotten, as he has and will continue to inspire so many.Visitation will be held on Friday, October 30th from 5-7pm at Memorial Park Funeral Home. Memorial Service will be held at The Catholic Church of the Incarnation on Saturday October 31st at 10:30am with burial to follow in Memorial Park Cemetery.The Helms family would like to thank Garrett’s excellent doctors and nurses at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for their personal and top notch care, and Collierville Schools for always being accommodating and attentive to Garrett’s needs. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Garrett Helms Memorial Fund at Bank Tennessee of Collierville for Collierville Schools Department of Exceptional Children.
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