Dorothy Jean Helms

Dorothy Jean Helms, 83, of Fort Wayne, passed away peacefully Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at Parkview Regional Medical Center.

Dorothy was born in Celina, Ohio on October 14, 1942, a daughter of the late Ellen (Piper) & Gerold Wolfe.

Dorothy served with dedication as the associate director of the Fort Wayne Medical Society until her retirement in 2009. She found great joy in her yearly trips to Florida, a tradition she cherished for over 14 years. A faithful member of Taylor Chapel in Fort Wayne, Dorothy’s life was rooted in her faith and community. Above all, she deeply loved her children and grandchildren, treasuring every moment spent with them. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She will be sadly missed by her husband, Richard Helms, to whom she married April 27, 1973; her children, Chris (Tammy) Brigner & Jodi (Dale) Stoller; daughter-in-law, Deb Brigner; step-children, Rebecca (Rodger) Fitzpatrick, Susan (Paul) Andorfer, & Judy (Scott) Walter; brother, Harold (Sue) Wolfe; brother-in-law, Robert Kraner; 24 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; & 5 great great grandchildren. 

She was also preceded in death by her son, Michael Brigner, & sister Janice Kraner. 

Services will be held privately. 

She will be laid to rest in Lehman Cemetery. 

Memorials are to Shriner's Hospital for Children or Taylor Chapel. 

Fond memories may be shared at dooleyfuneralhome.com.