James L. Helmuth

A Life Well-Lived and Lovingly Remembered

Dr. James L. Helmuth passed away peacefully on October 9, 2025, at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, wisdom, and laughter. A beloved figure in the Akron community, Jim dedicated four decades to helping others through his counselling practice at Helmuth Psychological Associates. Known for his keen ability to listen deeply and offer genuine empathy, he provided guidance—and sometimes a chuckle—when his clients needed it most.

Jim graduated from Malone College, Earlham School of Religion, and the University of Akron, where he proudly earned his Ph.D. in Counselling. Whether he was consulting in local nursing homes or sharing stories with colleagues, he brought warmth and a hearty sense of humor to every setting. Jim was quick with a bad pun and enjoyed playing games, walking the beach and reading and writing poetry.

Jim is fondly remembered and missed by his longtime companion and husband, Richard Shirey. Jim is survived by his former spouse, Carolyn Pickler, mother of their children: Jennifer Helmuth and her son, Sam Roth; Leif (Sharla) Helmuth, and their daughter Victoria (Tyler) Chmielewski and their son Vance; and Richard’s children: Steve (Karen) Shirey and their children Liz and Joe; Brian (Jill) Shirey and their son Owen. He is also survived by sisters Barbara Witmer, and Carol Helmuth.

Jim was preceded in death by siblings William (Corrine) Helmuth, Dale (Barbie) Helmuth, and David (Naomi) Helmuth. Each of them shared in his penchant for storytelling and a love of memorable family gatherings—often filled with laughter and good food.

A Celebration of Jim’s vibrant life will be held 1 P.M. FRIDAY October 17th, 2025 at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Akron, 3300 Morewood Rd. Fairlawn, OH 44333. Friends and family are also cordially invited to calling hours 5-7 P.M. THURSDAY October 16th, 2025 at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road Fairlawn, OH 44333, where guests may swap stories, raise a toast, and remember his life. Jim will be laid to rest in a private interment ceremony at Rose Hill Burial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Unitarian Universalist Church of Akron, 3300 Morewood Rd. Fairlawn, OH 44333.

May his memory inspire us all to listen deeply, care genuinely, and always find a reason to share a laugh.

The Celebration of Life Service on Friday will be livestreamed via ZOOM and can be accessed at the following link: https://zoom.us/j/98593381178?pwd=9BI5caDDKFNG8Jg5HABUphSlT1pG8c.1 . The meeting coordinates and passcode are available below for your convenience:

ZOOM Meeting ID: 98593381178
ZOOM Passcode: 510652

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road Akron, OH 44333 (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)