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Barry H. Helfand

03/02/1937 - 02/09/2026

Barry H. Helfand obituary, 03/02/1937-02/09/2026, Potomac, MD

BORN

03/02/1937

DIED

02/09/2026

FUNERAL HOME

Barry Helfand Obituary

Barry H. Helfand, 88, born in Wilmington, Delaware, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, surrounded by family. His family, friends, and community have lost a one-of-a-kind icon.

Barry was the beloved husband of Suzanne Helfand (formerly Cohen), of Wilmington, DE, for 62 years; a devoted father to Debra Bolog (Erik) and David Helfand (Lauren); and the immensely proud Poppop to Chandler, Tyler (Cara), Brett, Alyssa, and Sydney. He was a loving brother to Arnold and Kenny. Barry was predeceased by his parents, Albert and Sally Helfand, whom he adored.

Barry graduated from the University of Delaware and the University of Maryland School of Law. After clerking for the Honorable Ralph G. Shure in Montgomery County, Maryland, he became a prosecutor in the Montgomery County State's Attorney's Office before entering private practice, where he spent the next 60 years. For decades, his name became synonymous with integrity, creativity, and excellence, anchoring the Montgomery County criminal defense bar.

As lead defense counsel in numerous high-profile criminal cases that garnered national attention, Barry was known for his ingenuity, fearlessness, and absolute dedication to his clients. He brought his sharp wit, warmth, and unmatched courtroom presence to every case. Judges, prosecutors, and clients alike respected and admired his skill and sense of humor.

While he was deeply proud of his legendary legal career, nothing filled Barry's heart more than being a Poppop. Over the past 30 years, he devoted himself wholeheartedly to his grandchildren—attending every sporting event, school play, and milestone achievement. Nothing made him happier, and his grandchildren were as proud of him as he was of them.

Justice has lost a great warrior. His children have lost a loving and extraordinary father. His grandchildren have lost their hero.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 12, at 2 pm at the Garden of Remembrance Chapel. The family will be receiving visitors at 6:30 pm on Thursday evening, with the Shiva minyan beginning at 7:30 pm. The family will also be receiving visitors on Friday afternoon from 1-4 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Animal Rescue Corps, honoring Barry's love for his incredible dogs.

https://animalrescuecorps.org

May his memory forever be a blessing.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Feb. 11, 2026.

Memories and Condolences
for Barry Helfand

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4 Entries

Joe Stolz

February 23, 2026

Barry was truly the greatest lawyer of them all and a greater human being. His life speaks for itself.

Andrew Schlosser

February 12, 2026

Barry helped my son Ben and I though some very tough times. With Barry's help we were able to overcome the obstacles we faced.

Steven Feldman

February 12, 2026

Faith-Robin and Steve Feldman are saddened to learn of Barry's passing. Even though we hadn't seen each other in many years, he is always in our memory and heart. We will miss him dearly.

Henry Weil

February 11, 2026

Barry and I go all the way back to when we both sang in the choir at Adas Kodesh synagogue in Wilmington as young boys. I have to admit he had the better voice. Great lawyer and great person.

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Memorial Events
for Barry Helfand

Feb

12

Funeral service

2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Garden of Remembrance Memorial Park

14321 Comus Rd, Clarksburg, MD 20871

Funeral services provided by:

Sagel Bloomfield Danzansky Goldberg Funeral Care, Inc.

170 Rollins Ave, Rockville, MD 20852

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