Larry Elwood Helman, age 84, of Moorefield, West Virginia, passed away on Friday afternoon, March 20, 2026, at his residence.
Born on August 21, 1941, in Purgitsville, West Virginia, he was the son of the late Sylvia May Helman Crites and the stepson of the late Charles Crites. He was also preceded in death by a daughter.
Larry will be remembered as a devoted family man, a loyal friend, and someone who lived a full and meaningful life marked by service, hard work, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.
Larry proudly served his country in the United States Navy, an experience that shaped his character and sense of duty. Following his military service, he remained committed to serving others through his professional career.
He worked with the Sanford Fire Department in Florida, where he later retired, and eventually completed his working years with Con Agra Foods. His colleagues and those who knew him respected his strong work ethic and dependable nature.
A lifelong outdoorsman, Larry found great joy in activities such as hunting and fishing. He spent countless hours tending to his garden, taking pride in the fruits of his labor, and sharing them with family and friends.
His appreciation for nature reflected his patient and steady personality. In addition to his outdoor pursuits, Larry enjoyed watching women’s softball and had a fondness for card games, which he often played in the company of others he enjoyed being around.
These hobbies brought him happiness and gave him opportunities to connect with those in his community.
Larry was a dedicated member of American Legion Post Number 64 in Moorefield. His involvement reflected his continued commitment to veterans and his desire to remain connected to those who shared similar experiences in service.
He valued camaraderie and the bonds formed through shared history and mutual respect.
He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Joyce Ann Arbogast Helman. He also leaves behind his son, Larry E. Helman Jr., and daughter-in-law Aliya of Ohio, and his daughter Linda Madrid and her husband Anthony, along with their children Draco, Jackson, and Adrian of Nebraska.
Additional survivors include his brother Gerald M. Helman of Old Fields, West Virginia, as well as stepdaughters Tara Cook and her children Dakota and Kelsey of Upper Tract, West Virginia, and Elisha Shreve and her husband Jesse Jr., along with their children Sierra, Derek, Jesse the third, and Katie.
He is also survived by numerous step-grandchildren and extended family members who will cherish his memory.
A celebration of Larry’s life will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the Seventh Day Adventist Church located at 504 Trough Road in Moorefield, West Virginia.
Pastor Eddie Reyes will officiate the service, and military honors will be provided by the Moorefield Veterans Honor Guard.
Family and friends are invited to attend, share stories, and remember a man whose life was defined by kindness, service, and dedication to those he loved.
Larry’s legacy will live on through his family, his friendships, and the many lives he touched throughout his years. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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