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Donald Helms Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Donald Helms
A Good Friend and Brother
September 12, 2009
Roy Ayres
December 10, 2008
I was playing steel with Pee Wee King on the Grand Ole Opry when Don first came there. I left the music business in the early 60's and didn't see Don again until I retired in 2003 and ran into him at a steel guitar show. We both remembered each other and spent a lot of time over the next few years talking about old times. I will miss Don. I have always said that Don was the guy who taught all of us to play above the 15th fret.
Mike VanBuren
September 25, 2008
After listening to his music all my life, I finally met Don last fall when I interviewed him for my documentary about Buck Lake Ranch, a historic country music park near Angola, Indiana, where he played many times.
Don and Miss Hazel made us feel very welcome at their home and I was impressed by what a nice gentleman he was.
We will all miss him greatly.
John Wise
September 20, 2008
It was an honor to be in Don's circle of friends. I miss him dearly.
Chet Mooney
September 6, 2008
With deepest sympathy on the loss of one of the greatest musicians in country music, and also a true southern gentleman. He was greatly loved and appreciated in South Alabama.
Judy Carson
August 22, 2008
Don and Hazel Helms touched our lives for just a few days here in the mountains of North Carolina, but memories of them will always be huge. I was privileged to host them for breakfast many mornings during their visit, where they became precious friends. We thank God for this privilege.
Joe Hales
August 21, 2008
Thanks for the greatest Steel guitar music in the world. I received my first steel guitar in 1956 at age 16. I still have it today and listened to your music all my life.
thanks Joe
Claudia Wolfe
August 21, 2008
He was one of a kind. One of the greatest steel guitar players of all time. He is now playing with his former band members and all the other greats of country music.
Must be one great session up in Heaven.
Chris, Andrea, Christopher and Taylor Malpass
August 19, 2008
Don Helms was not only an exceptional musician, he was an exceptional gentleman. We loved him dearly, and will cherish each and every moment we spent with him and Miss Hazel. We will never forget the opportunities he gave our son, Christopher. We thank him for each and every story he shared when he visited our home, and the music he brought to our lives. I once described being with Don as though one was opening a window, and reaching through to touch the past. Although Hank died long before I was born, because of Don, I feel like we knew him. From Chris, Anne, Christopher and Taylor Malpass: We love you Miss Hazel, and to Mr. Don, we can't wait to hear that steel guitar up in the sky!
Chris Malpass
August 19, 2008
Dear Don You have no clue how i miss you. You gave me a chance to live a dream and the dream was to play with shag. I wanted so bad to be there but the road of music had us miles apart when god called you home. Without you i would have never had the chances u gave a 22 year old red neak country boy as you called me on stage so many times. I love you Don and mrs Hazel you mean just as much. Till we met again your freind and (driver) and admirer. Love you don and hazel Chris
Paul Owsley
August 19, 2008
We enjoyed visiting with Don through the years as he travelled with the Drifting Cowboys and Jett Williams shows. (I once got to drive the bus--Kalijah-- from Kansas City to Omaha and back with the original Cowboys on one of their last tours!) Don was always laid back and down-to-earth and everyone's greatest friend. He will be missed. Hazel, Jan and I send our love to you and your family.
Tom Underwood
August 18, 2008
I only met Don one time and talked with him on the phone one time but he seemed like a dear old friend. An era of country music has ended.
Steve Vincent
August 17, 2008
I first met Don in 2003 , when I played drums with him at the chattanooga steel show. Don made you feel important, welcome, and he told a lot of great stories. I will miss him, his friendship, and his great steel playing.
Lynn Owsley
August 17, 2008
Don always wore many hats for me,he was my Friend,Neighbor,Co- Worker,Advisor,Brother,Dad,and Hero and he has given me great gifts of knowledge,entertainment and fellowship for 40 years and he will continue to give with great memories for as long as I have memories....No one is truely gone as long as someone remembers....
Kathie Canter
August 16, 2008
Dear Mrs. Hazel:
I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your husband, Don. I never met him, but, if he is anything like I remember you being, he was a great man. It has been a long time since I have seen you, and I and Alicia wanted to let you know, that we were thinking of you! Remember us from Mrs. Ruth's. May the Lord Bless You and Keep His Everlasting Arms Around You, and Give You Peace.
AL & ELGIE COTTER {COUSIN BROSSY}
August 16, 2008
WELL HOSS, I KNOW YOU, HANK AND THE COWBOYS ARE ON NEXT WITH MINNIE ASKING YOU FOR A QUICK JOKE, ROY, BILL AND THE WILBURNS IN THE WINGS WAIT FOR A SHOW 55 YEARS IN THE MAKING, THANKS FOR JOKES, THE STORIES, THE HISTORY YOU GAVE US. THANKS FOR LETTING ME BE A PART OF YOU SHOW, KNOW ONE WILL NEVER KNOW THE LOVE I FEEL FOR YOU AND MISS HAZEL I WILL NEVER FORGET ONE SECOND I WAS ABLE TO SPENT WITH YOU BOTH. REST IN PEACE MY DEAR FRIEND.
Miss Lana
August 16, 2008
Every trip I made to Nashiville I saved an afternoon to visit Don and Hazel. They welcomed me to their home as if I was a member of the family. That's how Don and Hazel were - everyone was family. He always asked about my Daddy and Mother and sent well wishes back with me.
My last visit with Don and Hazel was this past June. We went out to lunch just chatting away and when we got back to his home he began telling me about the events that were coming - he was so happy with a spring in his step...he shared more stories and memorabilia from his exciting life. Don taked about Hank and the Cowboys alot. He told me many times that he owed alot to Hank. Even though I never met Hank I truly believe the feeling was mutual.
When the time came to leave he would give a great big ole hug and tell me that he loved. Hazel did the same. For the first time I thought to myself, how many more visits do I have with Don and Hazel? I had hoped for many more but God called him first.
Don Helms was one of the most honorable people I have met. He was humble, grateful, well grounded, and unexpecting. He is/was a living legend. When around him you had a trip through history. And when Don took the stage, all eyes and ears were on him. At the end of his set, the band would stop, Don payed tribute to the other legend. It was like he was letting Hank know that he still missed him.
Finally Don has reunited with his bandmates, Hank and the many friends that went before him. What a jam session the Angels got to see!
I wouldn't be surprised if Hank is saying "Shag give me an intro."
An era has ended. This chapter in history ended. If the saying 'Heros get remebered, but legends never die' is true then I'll see you in the stars Don.
Miss Hazel - you are just as much a legend as your life partner. We all love you very much. You are in my thoughts and prayers always.
Roy Ayres
August 16, 2008
I first met Don when he joined Hank Williams on the Grand Ole Opry. Then I lost contact with him until 2003. When we met again and renewed the old friendship, he was just the same Don that I had known a lifetime ago. With Don, what you saw was what you got. I enjoyed being around Don these past few years, as he was a gentleman in every sense of the word and an excellent musician with a great sense of humor. I will miss him.
Bob ,Barbara Callaway
August 16, 2008
We were priviledged to have known Don. It is with great regret that he had to leave us so soon. He never met a stranger and his word was his bond. In this day and time these qualities are far to few. May God bless and comfort Dons family now and forever.
John Davis
August 16, 2008
Rest in peace Mr.Helms and thank you for the music.
Chuck Cumming
August 16, 2008
Although I was not privileged to know Don Helms personally I know and love his music. As a Hank Williams' fan from long ago, it was the "Don Helms" sound that made it unique. As my good friend Danny Hammers commented, the music in Heaven has been improved with the arrival of Brother Don Helms
Jack Dougherty
August 16, 2008
I met Don a few years ago in Florida at the Hall of Fame show. I feel fortunate to have had a picture with him. He will be missed.
Roy & Laura Ayres
August 16, 2008
We have lost another legend and a wonderful friend. Hazel we love you. May God give you and your family comfort & peace. We will keep you in our prayers. Love, Roy & Laurie Ayres
Jack & Trudy Stoner
August 16, 2008
I've been fortunate to meet Don and Hazel several times. The last time was at the ISGC in St Louis. Words cannot express the sorrow of losing a friend and living legend.
Maurice Anderson
August 16, 2008
Don's musical signature which displayed his unique playing style of steel guitar, will forever be etched in the annals of time.
More importantly Don was a man of exemplary character whos life made a positive contribution to everyone who heard him play, or were so fortunate as to know him. I am proud and honored to say he was my friend.
Bobby and Linda Caldwell
August 15, 2008
We have lost a great talent and dear friend. What a great honor it was to sit on the same stage and play with him. He will be in our thoughts always,
Linda and Bobby Caldwell
St. Louis, MO
Dorothy McGuffin
August 14, 2008
I met Don and Hazel at the
Wilburn Brothers Tribute in Hardy AR. in May 2008. Glad I got to talk
to them that day. Very Nice Folks!
Rest in Peace Don. You deserve it.
Dottie
Charlie & Margit Stepp
August 14, 2008
Hazel & Family -
We have known Don for many, many years. He has been a dear and wonderful friend. The world has truly lost a great musician. Our thoughts and sympathies are with you. God Bless.
CLETUS HOPKINS
August 14, 2008
MISS HAZEL, WE ALWAYS LOVE BIENG AT THE STEEL SHOWS TO SEE YOU AND MR. DON. R.I.P. MR. DON.
CLETUS & SHERRY
Fredamae Gamblin
August 14, 2008
I was thrilled to meet Don and Hazel in Hardy,AR. first in May 2007. I was one of the producers of The First Annual Wilburn Brothers Tribute and Don gave a wonderful performance at that Tribute sharing so many wonderful stories of his time with Hank Sr. and the Wilburn Brothers as well as so many other great performers. He returned to Hardy in May 2008 to perform again at the Tribute. He was truly a fine gentleman and a legend in Country music. It was so wonderful to see the love Don and Hazel shared for so many years. He will be missed. My heartfelt sympathy goes to Miss Hazel and all the family.
Andy Alford
August 14, 2008
Dear Hazel and family:
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Don was a great musician, family man and friend. I loved the way he was always telling me about what was going on with his children and grand-children. He really loved you Hazel and all of you so much. He is greatly missed.
Steve Ripley
August 14, 2008
How can it be possible that someone you've never met feels so very much like family? I never really knew him, but I loved him all my life. It's easy to exaggerate in times like this, but it's no exaggeration to say Don helped shape all of what we know as country and rock & roll music.
JUDY AND WAYNE GRAY
August 13, 2008
I'VE KNOWN DON SINCE 1959.AND WORKED WITH HIM MANY TIMES HE HAD A GREAT SENSE OF HUMOR. HE WAS A GREAT MUSICIAN, AND EVEN MORE IMPORTANT, HE WAS A GREAT MAN.- THANKS DON, FOR THE MUSIC AND MEMORIES.
WAYNE GRAY.
Danny & Patricia Hammers
August 13, 2008
To my Dearest family, and friends, Some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
"Well They say the angels in heaven play the harps.
But when I get there if I do.
I hope they play a steel guitar.
And with Brother Don there can you even imagine that sound."
Robbie Cox
August 13, 2008
Don will be missed so very much, and by so very many. We all loved Don, and Hazel. Our prayers and heartfelt sympathy are with all of the family. He lived a great life, and a Happy life. Love you all. Robbie
William, Judy & Kayla Wilson
August 13, 2008
My first knowledge of country music and the awesome sound of the steel guitar was listening to Don Helms. My deepest sympathy for the family and friends. Our loss is heavens gain.
Robert Fricks
August 13, 2008
Thanks to the Helms family for sharing Don with the world he was a great musician and man even though I never got to meet him. RIP Mr. Helms I know the Lord's enjoying your playing with Hank now he has all of his Drifting Cowboys together again. Your music will live on for ever.
Bob Minter
August 13, 2008
To Miss Hazel, Frank and all the family, Karin and I send our heartfelt sympathy. All of you have been such an important part of Bo's life and that of his family and so many others. God Bless Daddy Don and each of you.
Our love,
Bob & Karin Minter
Floyd and Frances Evans
August 13, 2008
Dear Hazel,
Please accept our sincere sympathy.
We have followed Don's music for years from Hank Williams and most recently at Lewisburg,KS earlier this year. Thank you for signing our book while you were there.
The world has just lost a tremendously talented steel guitar player and songwriter.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Ralph Harkey
August 13, 2008
It was truly a pleasure introducing Don on stage of the Cross Country Campground in Denver NC and the East Rowan High School in Salisbury NC a couple of years ago. I was truly looking forward to the show he had scheduled in Salisbury NC on August 9th 2008 but, a detour was made. This detour took him to his Heavenly home where he will play on the Grandest Opry show of all. I will always treasure the photo of Don and I together in Denver NC that hangs on my "Wall of Fame" at home. RIP, Don...You will be missed.
Lynda Duggin
August 13, 2008
Traveled to Montgomery each year in Jan., always loved to hear him play, and especially hear the stories he was always willing to tell of his time he traveled and played with Hank Williams. Forever missed, never forgotten. Prayers and best wishes to his family.
Tom,Patsy Palmer
August 13, 2008
Don,thanks for being my hero all my life,your name and music will live for ever
monte pepperell
August 13, 2008
Lucky enough to probably see Don's last concert last month here in Crossville, TN. Don was GREAt; and both he and Hazel were a delight to speak with.Truly a legend!!!
Don & Ruby Burrows
August 13, 2008
Don will be missed by all who knew him, our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to Miss Hazel and the entire Helms family.
The drifting cowboys are all together again!!!
Edsel & Maggie Peterson
August 13, 2008
Don was truly a gentleman from the old school and I was honored to call him friend. Each time we met it was like a new chapter in
lifes journey. Sadly missed but never forgoten.
Our prayers are with Hazel and family.
Ron and Leslie Elliott
August 13, 2008
Dearest Don,
Words escape us as to what to say when you have lost one of your best friends. We can only thank you for the many years of friendship, love and care we shared for each other. You made a very special place in our lives and hearts that will always be there. We love you and Miss Hazel dearly and always will. We will miss having you eat with us, being together at steel guitar shows and meetings; the ROPE gatherings and having you over to our home. These are all very special times to us and these and any other memories of you will always be in our hearts and minds. We will stay in close contact with Miss Hazel for you. May you rest in peace and until we meet again, remember that we love you,
Ron and Leslie Elliott
Chuck Chellman
August 13, 2008
God Bless your spirit, Don. Bless you also, Hazel. Years ago, my office was in the building with the Wil-Helm Agency. Don, Doyle & Teddy were always great to me. Many happy mempories!! You all are missed!
Joe and Anne Pellowski
August 13, 2008
Don Helms is the worlds loss and Heavens gain. He is a wonderful man and will be missed by lots of people . We will cherish the memories Don and Hazel have left us with .. God Bless you
Jimmy Stratton
August 13, 2008
Don was a great man, it was a pleasure and a honor to get to know him and Hazel, there are few men left like him in the world today, I will miss his great wisdoms and humor, he once told me " I remember when men had tattoos and women had earrings!"
Pearl Klein
August 13, 2008
Don was sure a great musician, He could really play that peddle steel guitar. I got to see him in concert many years ago. It was the Drifting Cowboys. I don't remember the date but it was in Chillicothe, Ohio at a high school. I was raised on Hank Williams music but never got to see him in concert, because I was only 7 years old when he passed away. Don will surely be missed and I want to say God bless all of his family.
Ted Jones
August 13, 2008
I would like to extend my deepest sympathys to the family. I had the honor of meeting Mr. Helms a few years ago and he was a fine gentleman. He will be missed but his contributions to the music buisness will live on forever. God bless each one of you.
Ted Jones
Ted Jones & The Tarheel Boys
Joe McHam
August 13, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers to the family of Don. He has been added to the Memorial site for our steel guitar heros that left us. http://www.joemcham.net/Memories/Don%20Helms/don.html
Elaine Butts
August 13, 2008
Don and Miss Hazel, you are such an inspiring 'couple', and through the many years I have known you, I have seen a happiness that everyone should share in their life. I will miss seeing you, Don, driving by my house, as I already miss you and Miss Hazel at the bank since I have retired.....Enjoy Heaven! ..I know you are sitting there with the Heavenly Father playing your guitar for Him as you have entertained so very many people on this earth...! With my love and sympathy,
Nadalie Helms
August 13, 2008
Daddy Don, i dont really know what to say...I wish i could bring you back! I love you so much and Kerra does too. You were such a very important part of our lives and it is hard to imagine it with out you in it. I know that you will always be with us and wathcing over us. I will always love you and will miss you till we meet again in heaven. Save me a chicken McNugget! I love you and God Bless,
Nadalie Helms and Kerra Marsh
Terry&Ruth McKinney
August 13, 2008
As they say in cowboy language, "Don Helms was truely the GREATEST all around cowboy on and off the stage." Miss. Hazel you are the greatest cowboys SWEET HEART!
We know, because Don told us so at his bedside at Skyline Hospital.
Your Friends & Extended Family
We Love You,
Terry & Ruth McKinney
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