SYLVIA R. HELZEL

HELZEL, SYLVIA R.

Sylvia Rose Helzel, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away on May 2, 2011, at Haven Hospice in Gainesville at the age of 87.

Ms. Helzel was born in Sturgis, Michigan, on January 15, 1924, to the late Fred and Cora Hubner, formerly of Gainesville, and spent her childhood there. She moved to Gainesville in 1965 after the death of her first husband, and where she lived until 1993. She married Gerald Helzel in 1968, and they moved to Franklin, NC, after their retirement. Ms. Helzel most recently worked as a billing specialist for Shands Hospital. For many years after moving to Franklin, she enjoyed volunteering at the Smoky Mountain Welcome Center. She was a member of Resurrection Lutheran Church in Franklin, and a was a very devoted Lutheran.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Phillip Arthur Rhoads, Sr., as well as her parents, sisters Coral Meyers and Joan Smith, and brothers, Freddie and Loren Hubner. She is survived by husband Gerald Helzel of Franklin, N.C.; her 5 sons: Phillip Rhoads, Jr. of Greer, S.C.; Jon Rhoads and Alan Rhoads of Alachua, Fl..; Randy Rhoads of Gainesville, Fl.; and Todd Rhoads of Orlando, as well as 8 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren; one sister, Shirley Young of Fort Lauderdale, and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, May 28 at 11:00 am at First Lutheran Church, 1801 NW 5th Ave., Gainesville. Pastor Robert Besalski will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Haven Hospice of Gainesville, or Angel Hospice of Franklin, N.C.