Sylvia Helms Lewis

Sylvia Helms Lewis, 69 of Mt. Holly, NC, took her place in heaven, May 1, 2018.

She was born December 4, 1948 in Mecklenburg County, the daughter of the late William Taft Helms and Elizabeth Bynum Helms.

She was the strongest person, most of us knew.  Being an adult started early in life for her.  As the oldest of 5, she put on her "Mom" hat and went to work.  This was a hat she wore to the very end.  She wasn't just my mother, she was Mom to many.  Always willing to help anyone in need, be a shoulder to cry on, or someone to tell your story to.  Unfortunately, for me this happened most in grocery lines.  Although she grew up with little, she always had a heart for those less fortunate than herself.   She loved all her family and friends dearly, but everyone took a backseat when she became a grandmother.  Kelsey, her heart, as she so fondly referred to her, renewed her vest for life and gave her so much joy and happiness.

She is survived by her brother, Jeff Helms of Myrtle Beach, SC; sister, Jane Helms Smith of Harrisburg, NC; son, John Christopher Lewis; daughter, Kelly Lewis Kennedy; granddaughter, Kelsey Ann Kennedy, of Mt. Holly, NC and many beloved nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Neal Helms and Wesley Helms, and her husband, Creed "Doodle" Lewis.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make donations to American Diabetes Association – 1300 Baxter St., Suite 150, Charlotte, NC 28204 or online at www.diabetes.org in her honor.

The family will receive friends 11 am – 1 pm on Friday, May 4, 2018 at Greene Funeral Service – South Chapel, 1503 S. York Rd., Gastonia.

A funeral service officiated by Pastor Mike Davis will follow the visitation at 1 pm at the funeral home.

Burial will be in Hillcrest Gardens, Mt. Holly.

Arrangements are with the South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service and Crematorium, Gastonia.