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Gary B. Helms of Vero Beach, Florida died on June 13, 2025. He was 88 years old.
Gary was born and raised in Union County, North Carolina. He was the son of Ethel Medlin Helms and Craven B. Helms.
Gary was a graduate of Wingate College and the University of North Carolina, and received his Master’s of Business Administration (with Distinction) from Harvard Business School.
Gary spent his entire career in the investment business. He managed a major mutual fund and the research department of legendary Loeb Rhoades in the 70s and 80s, and the endowments for the University of Chicago in the 90s. For over 30 years he was widely quoted in the financial and investment press.
In retirement, which he spent Vero Beach and Eden, UT, Gary wrote and published several novels and amused himself and others by writing songs. He involved himself in what he called “retail charities,” or smaller, local organizations where he could see the impact of his giving.
Over the years, Gary was a member of Leawood Country Club (Kansas City), Peninsula Racquet Club (Palos Verdes, CA), Houston Racquet Club, Sea Oaks Beach & Tennis Club, Saddle & Cycle Club (Chicago), and The Moorings Yacht and Country Club.
Gary will be remembered by family and friends for his wit, irreverent humor, and readiness with quotes, often from poems and the music he so loved.
Preceded in death (2006) by Libby DeBrule Helms, Gary is survived by his 3 children, Gee B. Helms of St. Petersburg, Gregory B. Helms of Santa Barbara, CA, and Gari B. Helms of Foresthill, CA, and sisters Nola McCollum and Deborah Helms.
Arrangements for a celebration of life will be announced.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2025 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Dana Daughtry - Mother-in-law
June 20, 2025, 2:26 am
Gari, so very sorry about your father. He was a wonderful man. He was well liked and will be remembered by so many love Dana.
Sharon Harrison - Friend
June 20, 2025, 12:55 pm
Gary was one of a kind. I have so many memories and great stories of Gary over the years. I treasure these. He was a great man and I will miss him.
Tony Corey - Friend
June 21, 2025, 10:52 pm
Gary, our friend for life. His glass was always full. His respect for friendship was unparalleled. His witticism managed to bring out the best in people. Tonight we will have our final toast to Gary; a man we already miss. Tony & Bernadette