Devillo Arthur Helmer Jr., 84, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026, at 3:25 a.m., after a long and courageous battle with dementia. Though dementia slowly took many of his memories, it never diminished the love he gave so freely throughout his life. He leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, steadfast devotion to his family, and a life dedicated to serving others.

Dev was born on February 8, 1942, in Ionia, Michigan, to Devillo Arthur Helmer Sr. and Gladys (Green) Helmer. At the age of four, his family moved to California. Then, at 21, he moved to Missouri. Shortly thereafter, he spent about a year in Kalamazoo, Michigan, with some extended family, before returning to Missouri at the age of 22 to be closer to his parents, who had moved here. This is where he began the chapter that would shape the rest of his life.

Shortly after returning to Missouri, he met Georgia Grogan, the woman who would become his beloved wife of 54 years. Dev was persistent in pursuing her heart, asking her to marry him at least five times before she finally said yes. Their love story became one of faithfulness and devotion, and they were united in marriage on May 17, 1972, in Willow Springs, Missouri. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and unconditional love.

For 44 years, Dev worked for DRS, starting with them when it was Southwest Truck Body as an inspector. He worked in several different positions over those years, but his final role was a tool design engineer. Dev had no formal training for this final role, but he was quite skilled on the CAD system, earning the respect of those around him through his intelligence, determination, and remarkable work ethic.

Beyond his career, he faithfully answered God's call as a minister for more than 50 years. Sharing the Gospel wasn't simply something he did-it was who he was. He loved serving the Lord, encouraging others in their faith, and living out the values he preached.

Music was another gift he shared with those around him. He loved singing and playing the guitar, filling homes, churches, and coffee shops with songs of praise that reflected his deep relationship with Christ. He especially loved to sing with his Georgia, with her playing the piano and his daughters, Jackie and Nikki, singing too.

Above all else, Dev was a family man. His family was his greatest joy and proudest accomplishment. His grandchildren remember countless trips to Branson, laughter-filled days together, camping at the lake, and the comforting security of sitting on Grandpa's knee. He was the kind of grandfather who was always ready with open arms after you had been gotten onto, offering comfort, grace, and unconditional love.

He enjoyed building model cars, a hobby that required patience and precision. He also loved building things with wood, and if he built it, it would be sturdy and stand the test of time. His girls thought he could fix anything, and he just about could, even if not through the conventional method. His grandchildren also fondly remember being told not to touch Grandpa's work computer-though, as children often do, they couldn't always resist. Those little moments have now become treasured memories that bring smiles through tears.

Those who knew Dev knew he was quick to love and slow to anger. His gentle spirit, kind heart, and steadfast faith touched everyone he met. Even through the difficult years of dementia, his family remained faithfully by his side, loving him just as he had loved them throughout his life.

Dev was preceded in death by his parents, Devillo Helmer Sr. and Gladys Helmer; his infant son, John Helmer; his sisters, Dolores Beede and June Falck; and several beloved aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Georgia Helmer; his daughters, Jackie (Adam) Kimbrough, Nikki Dean, and Dena Paulsen; his beloved grandchildren, Zoe (Carson) Lowe, James Dean, John Kimbrough, Jordan (Heaven) Richards, and Ashley Eldridge; several cherished great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; sisters-in-law Kathy (Jim) Carr and Shirley Jones; and countless friends and church family whose lives were blessed by knowing him.

Though his family grieves his absence, they rejoice knowing that after a long battle with dementia, Dev is whole again in the presence of his Savior. His race is finished, his faith has become sight, and the legacy of love, faithfulness, and kindness he leaves behind will continue to live on through all who knew him.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 17, 2026, at Westside Family Life Center, Willow Springs, Missouri, with Pastor David Lovan and Pastor Dennis Walton officiating, under the direction of Yarber Mortuary, Willow Springs, Missouri. Visitation will be held Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 5-8:00 pm also at the church. Interment will be in Big Creek Cemetery, Yukon, Missouri. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.