Obituary of Thera Hyllis Helmick
Thera Hyllis Smith was born in Pike County, Kentucky on January 26, 1951. She was one of ten children born from the union of the late Arnold Smith and the late Susie (Jude) Smith. She attended John’s Creek High School in Kentucky.
Thera was blessed with the birth of one daughter: Tammy. For many years, Thera supported her family with employment at Ford Motor Company on the assembly line.
She was very crafty and loved to make things with her hands. She was especially gifted with sewing and quilting. Thera also collected ceramics, having created quite a collection. More than anything, she cherished the time she would share with her grandchildren. With the grandchildren around there wasn’t any idle time, since they found lots of activities to complete together.
Thera enjoyed relaxing to her favorite television shows often watching QVC, religious programming, and NCIS. She always believed in helping others and giving back to her community. Many years ago, she fell in love with volunteering. Thera spent much time serving those in need including women and children at the Damascus Way Home.
Although, she had resided in Monroe for the past thirty-five years, Thera still considered Kentucky home and took the opportunity to visit family every chance she had.
Thera Hyllis Helmick, age 68, of Monroe passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 18, 2019 at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital. In addition to her parents her passing was preceded by two siblings: Orie Mae Gallagher and Allen Nickson Smith; and two brothers-in-law: Hollis Ray and Ron Schimko.
To cherish her memory, Thera leaves her daughter: Tammy Clapp (James Harris) of Monroe; five sisters: Mary Ray, Patricia (Bob) Stanley, Lida Schimko, Linda (Gary) Stanley, and Glenda (Mike) Lyons; two brothers: Raymond (Cora) Smith and Vernon (Karen) Smith; three grandchildren: William Clapp, Kristin Clapp (Dan Sivils), and Joshua Justice (Brittany Binney); and two great-grandchildren: Jaylin Clapp, and Edan Ray.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Her Life is being planned for a later date.
In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the family. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a picture by visiting www.merklefs.com.