Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Mary Helmer
1934 - 2025
FUNERAL HOME
UPCOMING SERVICE
Mary Helmer Obituary
Mary Joan Scrivens was born in 1934 in Ypsilanti, Michigan, to Ralph and Martha Scrivens. The youngest of three children, she grew up in Ypsilanti and graduated from Ypsilanti High School, where one of her classmates was her future husband, Richard. After high school, she earned a degree in education from Eastern Michigan University and became a teacher.
Mary and Richard wed in June 1956. Following Richard's job opportunities, they moved to Chicago area, where they had one son. In 1961, they moved to Idaho Falls, and they soon had a second son. Richard worked for various companies at the INEL until his retirement in 1999. After a period of teaching, Mary focused on her family, church, gardening, and volunteer activities.
Mary and Richard became members of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in 1961. Mary held various leadership positions and was a member of the choir. Through church-led programs, she was a participant in volunteer activities, such as home construction with Habitat for Humanity. She was also an active member of P.E.O., and was a supporter of the Museum of Idaho and the College of Eastern Idaho.
Mary was also an active quilter. She was an active member of the Quilt Guild and displayed her quilts at various quilt shows.
She is survived by her sons Gary Helmer of Salem, Ore. and Carl Helmer of Idaho Falls, Carl's wife Angela and their two daughters, son-in-law, and one great grandchild. Mary was preceded in death by her husband Richard and her parents and siblings.
The family would like to express their sincere thank you to Fairwinds- Sand Creek, Alliance Home Health, Aspen Hospice and the staff at EIRMC for their kindness and care over the years.
A memorial service will be held at St. Paul's United Methodist Church, at the corner of 17th Street and St. Clair Road in Idaho Falls. Tuesday November 18, 2025, at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 1730 St. Clair Road, Idaho Falls, ID 83404, or to a charity of the giver's choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Mary Helmer
Funeral services provided by:
Buck-Murphy Funeral Home & Cremation Services825 E 17th Street, Idaho Falls, ID 83404
Memories and Condolences
for Mary Helmer
Sponsored by Buck-Murphy Funeral Home & Cremation Services (formerly Buck Miller Hann).
1 Entry
Kim Lee
Yesterday
Gosh I´m going to miss her. Sweet Mary was always optimistic regardless of the circumstances. She was a gem and I am blessed to have spent time with her
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
Make a Donation
in Mary Helmer's name
How to support Mary's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Mary Helmer's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
