Gail Bentley Helmick

I worked with Gail for ten years at the NNSY and on the Naval Base. My first day at the shipyard, Gail took me over to the clinic to get a handicapped parking permit. Then, every evening, for ten years, Gail would go and get my van from the parking lot and bring it around to the front door for me so I wouldn't have to walk so far. I never had to ask for her to help. We always spent time chatting before leaving. I will miss those talks.

I am grateful to Gail & the whole Helmick family for helping me through one of the hardest times in my life and for making me feel like family. Gail was very special to me and I'll always remember her for her sarcastic sense of humor, giggle, & ability to tell it like it is. Most of all she will be cherished for being such a spectacular grandmother to Bailey. My condolences and love to you all.

Gail had an enormous, caring heart. Additionally, she had a wit unsurpassed. I also recall her love of ODU Women's Basketball Team. It makes me very sad to hear of her passing - much too soon - yet when I think of Gail, I smile. My prayers and thoughts are with her family.
Donna Ewing
Former Co-worker, DFAS

I am so sorry. I cannot even believe this and to be honest, I am not handling it very well. I love Gail forever and always and I just can't express in words how much I will miss her. My heart breaks for Junior, Ashley, Michael, Logan and the other grandchildren who will not get to know her the way I did. Her humor was contagious and her heart was always open to anyone in need. I will miss you, Gailie, more than you could ever know.

I am shocked and saddened by the loss of my dear friend Gail Bentley Helmick. I have not seen her very much since I moved to Birmingham but she is a huge part of my memories in childhood and adolescence. She lived practically in our backyard and we were either at her house or mine! I loved her deeply and will miss her deeply. I introduced her to her husband 38 years ago. It is hard to believe. My deepest sympathy goes out to her beloved husband Junior and her children.

To the Helmicks, I truly will miss Gail, we lived in the same neighborhood. But I didn't get the pleasure of meeting her until we were in our 20's. Gail did make you laugh and what a special friend she was.There was a few of us girls that hung together , I can't even begin to tell you how much fun we had and even got into some trouble. But we all did grow up and remained friends. Although I never saw much of Gail after we all settled down. I knew she would be there for me at anytime. I know...