Helms, Laura Gillespie

Laura Gillespie Helms, of Christiansburg, Virginia, passed away Tuesday, August 4th, 2026.

Laura was a woman who loved Jesus deeply, loved her family wholeheartedly, and loved helping others. She had a truly giving heart and found joy in being there for people, especially when they needed her most. She was the kind of person who made you feel cared for, supported, and never alone. Her love was shown not only in the things she did, but in the way she made people feel.

Laura also loved to laugh—and perhaps even more, she loved making other people laugh. Her sense of humor could brighten a room, and she had a special way of bringing smiles to the people around her. She never needed a reason to have fun or make a moment lighter, and her laughter was contagious.

But what made Laura truly special was the love she gave so freely. She was a devoted mother, a loving wife, a cherished family member, and a friend who could be counted on. She gave so much of herself to the people she loved, never asking for anything in return. Her kindness, generosity, laughter, and unwavering love left an imprint on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Left to cherish her memory her husband Jeffrey Helms, and three children, Cole Helms; Taylor Woolwine and her husband, Brandon; and Logan Giantonio and her husband, Dorian. Laura was also a proud and loving grandmother to her three granddaughters or her “grand girls” as she called them. Nora and Amelia Woolwine, and Sadie Giantonio. They brought tremendous joy to her life, and the love their Mimi had for them will remain part of their lives forever.

Laura is also survived by her mother, Bonnie Sheppard Gillespie; her brother, Darryl J. Gillespie and wife Jamie; Sister in law Vicky Gillespie; nephew Seth Gillespie; nieces, Laura Beth Gillespie Howell, Alex Gillespie, and Great neices Elizabeth and Victoria Ratcliff, Kennedy Gillespie, Haddie Dickerson and great nephew Jace Gillespie, along with aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and many dear friends, especially her partner in crime, Becky Thatcher.

She was preceded in death by her father Herbert Gillespie and brothers Brent and Phil Gillespie.

Laura’s life will be remembered through the people she loved, the people she helped, the laughter she brought into a room, and the kindness she showed to others. Her absence will be deeply felt, but the love and memories she leaves behind will continue to live in the hearts of her family and friends.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Belview Church on Monday August 10,2026. Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Laura’s Life at 3:00 p.m with the Pastor Laura Beth Howell officiating . Interment will follow in the Stanger Sheppard Cemetery on Waterworks Rd.