James G. Helms, Sr. of New Haven, MO was born March 22, 1947, in Washington, MO; the son of Richard Helms, Sr. and Bernice (Strubberg) Sperry. James passed away Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the age of 77 years.

James honorably served in the United States Army with the 25th Infantry Division. He bravely fought in Vietnam before being injured and joining the reserves.  At the time of his discharge, James had earned the title of E5 Sergeant.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and watching westerns.  He also loved listening to music, especially country music, and always had some tune playing on his radio.  He loved spending time with his family and friends and will be dearly missed by those who knew and loved him.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Helms, Sr. and Bernice Sperry; one daughter, Emma Latham; one brother, Elmer "Sonny" Sperry, Jr.; and one sister, Gloria Haeffner.

He is survived by five children: James Helms, Jr. of Union, Shawn Helms of Shell Knob, Elisha Stout and husband Michael of Catawissa, Kimberly Kallbrier and husband Sean of New Haven, and Edna Tanksley and husband Matt of Owensville; two brothers: Jesse Helms of Monrovia, CA., and Richard "Dickey" Helms, JR. of Hermann; three sisters: Rose Buhr and husband Mitch of Washington, Sharon Kobusch and husband Dennis of Grandview, and Linda Mattaline of Owensville; thirteen grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; seventeen nieces and nephews; thirty-nine great-nieces and great-nephews; and many other relatives and friends.

A private family burial will take place at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.