Ray “Jake” Helmick

Ray “Jake” Helmick, 81, of Exchange passed away June 17, 2020 at home.

He was born July 28, 1938 in Braxton County, a son of the late William “Wheat” Helmick and Prude McCord Helmick.  In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brothers; Carl Junior Helmick, French Helmick and Franklin Helmick.

Jake worked for the West Virginia Department of Highways in Gassaway for 35 years.  He was an outdoorsman who loved hunting deer and squirrel.  He loved being in nature.  He was a birdwatcher and watched the deer and turkeys near his home.   He fed his wild birds too.  Jake was an avid vegetable gardener.  He enjoyed listening to bluegrass and Hank Williams, Sr. music.   He was a Baptist by faith.

Jake will be fondly remembered by his wife of 43 years, Noretta King Helmick; son Billy Ray Helmick and girlfriend, Heather Nuzum of Burnsville; daughters, Donna Helmick Sears and husband, Michall of Little Birch and Virginia Helmick of Barboursville; brothers, Harry Helmick and wife, Minney and Larry Helmick; sister, Hazel Boggs; sister-in-law, Nina King; grandchildren, Carlee Nichelle Mays, Aidan Anthony Carter and Kaiden Ray Sears.

A graveside gathering of family and friends will be 2 P.M. Saturday, June 20, 2020 at Helmick Cemetery, Exchange.

Words of comfort and fond memories may be extended to the family at www.roachfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements by Roach Funeral Home, Gassaway.