Ernest “Van” Helms, 77, of Nolensville, Tennessee (formerly Charlotte, NC and Charleston, WV) passed away March 25, 2024, surrounded by his family. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father (pops), paw paw, brother, uncle, friend and for his kind heart, work ethic, contagious positivity and sense of humor. He accepted everyone with unconditional love, an open heart, open arms, perpetual smile and generosity that extended beyond his immediate family to encompass a wide network of loved ones. He displayed a zest for life, celebrating a life rich in love, resilience, and profound impact on others which will truly be missed by so many.

Ernest “Van” Helms was born in Charlotte, NC in 1946 and graduated from Garinger High School. After graduation, he joined the Marines and began working in the automotive industry. He opened and operated Helms Auto Supply for many years while raising his children. Later in his career, he found his true passion of working in the tanning industry, where he was employed by Forever Tan. After marrying his wife in 2000, Barbara Helms, he moved to West Virgina, where they and family opened and operated Planet Tan of Charleston. After retirement, Van moved back to Charlotte, NC and then to Nolensville, Tennessee.

Van was proceeded in death by his parents Ernest Wilson and Rosa Herron Helms and his two sisters, Nancy (Jerry) Cox, Frankie (Edward) Duchesney, brother-in-law, Johnny McMillian, and by his in laws, Orland and Betty Truman.

He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Barbara Wiseman Helms, and his three daughters and two sons. Daughters: Shelley Dorton (O’Hara) and granddaughters, Lindsay (Chris) and Leslie Dorton; Crystal (Chuck) Case and granddaughters, Courtney (Josh) and Jessica (Chris); and Ashley Helms (Chrystie) and grandsons, Austin Bishop and Jason Bishop Jr. and granddaughter, Kristin Bishop; Sons: Tarius (Delia) Reid and grandsons, Courtney and Demetrius Reid; Chris Wiseman (Nikki) and grandson, Jackson and granddaughter, Addy Wiseman. Sisters: Diane McMillian, Diana Truman and Toni (Tommy) Breeden; as well as many nieces, nephews and 4 great grandchildren to whom he loved so much.

A special thanks to Timmy, Brooke, Michael, Cash, Toni and Tommy Breeden for their unconditional love and devotion. A memorial will be held in Charlotte NC and Charleston WV in the spring where friends and family will be notified. 

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