Lois Elaine Helms

Lois “Elaine” Helms, age 81, of Orleans, Michigan, passed away at her home on March 30, 2026.

Elaine was the daughter of the Reverend Roy R. Helms and Jewel (Young) Helms. She was born in Noblesville, Indiana, and spent her early years in Russiaville and Atlanta, Indiana. Elaine graduated from Kokomo High School and later received her undergraduate and master’s degree in nursing from Temple University in Philadelphia.

As a young adult, Elaine moved to Michigan to be closer to her twin sister, Diane, and to pursue a career in her chosen field of nursing. She held many different positions throughout her distinguished career and eventually retired as Vice-President with Health Alliance Plan, a part of the Henry Ford Health Care system.

Elaine and Diane fulfilled a lifelong dream of owning a home “on the lake”. In September of 2002, they purchased a small cottage on Long Lake near Belding, Michigan and eventually built a home there together. Elaine loved spending time on and around the water enjoying lake life, including wind surfing and boating with family and friends. Summer evenings spent on the front porch were her favorite pastime. The many friendships Elaine developed and nurtured while living at the lake were a true blessing. Another great love in Elaine’s life was her passion for golf. She enjoyed playing with her many friends at the Candlestone Golf Resort and always looked forward to the Long Lake golf tournament held each summer. Elaine and Diane also enjoyed winters in Florida on Marco Island, for more than 15 years, where they formed many lasting friendships as well.

Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, and her brothers Richard Pruett, John Pruett and Mark Helms. She is survived by her sister, Diane Nelson, her sister-in-law Mary Ann Helms Campbell, her beloved niece Laura Helms Aguillon and beloved nephew Grant Helms and several other nieces, nephews, and many dear friends

A Celebration of Life will take place at the Greenville United Methodist Church, 204 W. Cass Street, Greenville, Michigan 48838, on Monday, April 6, 2026, with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. and the Service at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Jeff Williams officiating. Graveside committal prayers followed by interment will take place on Wednesday, April 8, at 11:00 a.m., at Zionsville Cemetery in Zionsville, Indiana, with Pastor David Williamson presiding.

Elaine’s family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the many friends of the Long Lake community who have provided support, compassion, meals, transportation, and care to Elaine and the whole family. We would also like to thank Elara Caring Hospice for providing medical care and compassion to Elaine and the family.

Memorial contributions in Elaine’s name are recommended to Elara Caring Hospice Foundation, 630 Kenmoor Ave., SE, Suite 200, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49546. Envelopes will be available at the Celebration of Life or by contacting Verdun Family Funeral Home at (616) 794-1300 or www.verdunfh.com, who is caring for the arrangements.