Warren Lee Helms

Warren Lee Helms, age 68, died Monday April 8, 2024, at the home of his daughter in Millbrook, AL, surrounded by his three loving children after a well fought battle with cancer.  He is predeceased in death by his father David Bennett Helms, his mother Virginia Nell Benton Helms, older brother Dr. Emory C. Helms, and sister-in-law Janice Helms.  He is survived by his three children: Chasey B. Jockisch (Freeman) of Millbrook, AL, Cynthia “Cindy” H. Claxton (Richard) of Prattville, AL, and Travis B. Helms (Jessica) of Jacksonville, FL; five grandchildren, Blakeley Barrow, Riley Barrow, Cayden Barrow, Sammie Jockisch, and Logan Helms; five siblings, David B. Helms, Jr., Mellanie H. Bailey (Kenneth), Jonathan “Jody” R. Helms (Julie), Robin W. Helms (Marlena), Callie H. Folds (Kyle); and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and special friends.  

Family meant the world to Lee and he gave them his love and support freely throughout his life, and he received an abundance of love and support from them and many special friends during his battle with cancer. 

Lee graduated from Jefferson Davis High School in Montgomery, AL, in 1973, where he excelled in football and track.  He proudly served six years in the U.S. Air Force from 1973-1979 with his fondest memories serving in Germany.

On September 12, 1979, Hurricane Frederick moved ashore on Dauphin Island, AL, as a Category 4 storm.  Fresh out of the military Lee took a temporary position and headed to Mobile which began his career with the Disaster Housing Office and the State of Alabama EMA (Emergency Management Agency).  He was named State EMA Director by Gov. Fob James and served during both of his terms.  He continued as State EMA Director under Gov.  Don Siegelman.  Upon retirement from the State of Alabama, he opened Lee Helms Associates LLC where he assisted cities and counties all over the State of Alabama develop their own disaster plans, as well as executing mock disasters to test those plans.  His company also assisted with cleanup after storms.

Lee gave back to his community wherever he was needed, from serving on the Montgomery City Planning Commission, to the Jeff Davis PTA, to President of Alabama NENA (National Emergency Number Association – 911), to President of the Board of the Humane Society of Chilton County, among a few.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 13, at 1:00 pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1405 Chapel Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092.  The family will receive friends from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm prior to the service at the church.

The family would like to give a special expression of thanks to Lee’s hospice nurse Elizabeth Parker from Amedisys.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lee’s name to The Montgomery Cancer Center, 4145 Carmichael Rd., Montgomery, AL 36106.

As we extend our deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time, we would also like to express our upmost gratitude to you for entrusting us with your loved one. Magnolia Cremations & Funeral Services.

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