Rev. John R. Helms' Obituary
Rev. John R. Helms, age 89, of North Ridgeville went home to be with his Lord and Savior Sunday May 17, 2026.
Born in Monroe, NC he resided in North Ridgeville for the past 50 years. He had previously lived in Columbus, OH and Cleveland, TN.
He was a preacher for 58 years, starting at Joyce Avenue Church of God in Columbus from 1961-1976, then North Ridgeville Church of God from 1976-1982 when he founded with his wife Jeri, Cathedral of Life in North Ridgeville where he was Pastor from 1982 until retiring in 2004.
He enjoyed traveling with his wife, walking, reading, tinkering with computers and just being with his grandchildren.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 73 years, Jeri (nee Walter), sons, John R. (Vanessa) Helms of Marengo, OH, Todd (Vicki) Helms of Elyria, 9 grandchildren, 35 great grandchildren, 14 great great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Sarah Helms, 2 sisters and 8 brothers.
The family will receive friends 4-7 PM Wednesday May 20, 2026 at Bogner Family Funeral Home 36625 Center Ridge Road North Ridgeville.
Services will be held 10:30 AM Thursday at Cathedral of Life with Pastor Mike Payne, officiating. Burial will follow in Resthaven Memory Gardens, Avon.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Cathedral of Life Ministries 5375 Jaycox Rd, N. Ridgeville, OH 44039.
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