Larry Carl Helms, 74, of Wingate passed away on Friday, July 12 at Novant Medical Center, Matthews, NC.

He was born in Union County on April 6, 1950 to the late Carl Vance and Nora Stancil Helms.

Larry was employed at Teledyne Allvac as a computer programmer for 38 years and retired in 2010.

He was a self-described "old hippie". He loved music and he loved it loud. He was an avid golfer and it was said that he could hit an iron further than most people could hit a wood. In his later years, he simply enjoyed being with his fur baby, Maddie.

A service to celebrate his life will be held on Thursday evening, July 18 at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel of Holland Funeral Service, 806 Circle Drive, Monroe, NC. All are welcome to attend.

Larry is survived by his wife of 41 years, Kathy Mullis Helms. He is also survived by sisters: Diane Nance and Judy Sawyer of Monroe; Phyllis Helms of Indian Trail and niece, Tracy Sawyer, of Indian Trail, extended family and friends and his beloved Maddie.

The family would like to extend thanks to the entire Intensive Care Unit of Novant Medical Center, Matthews, NC. for the amazing and compassionate care Larry received. Many thanks also to the family and friends who walked this road with us. We are forever grateful.

Holland Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family.