Russell Gordon Helme, Jr. walked on peacefully, at home February 5, 2017. A lifelong local resident, Russell was the son of the late Russell Gordon Helme Sr. and Anne Belmarce Helme.
He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years Toni Lee Williams Helme, his daughter Kerri Ann Helme and son-in-law TJ Thomas, his daughter Bethany Lee Helme and son-in-law Jesse Gonsalves, his daughter Kimberly Dawn Helme, nine loving grandchildren, Alana, Pharaoh, Ahanuw, Jaxson, Ezra, Billie, Akecheta, Quetzal, Bella, and one on the way, his brother Stephen Helme and sister-in-law Deborah Helme, his nieces and nephews, Chris, Jon and Stephanie and their families all of whom he loved dearly.
Russell was a Mashpee Wampanoag tribal elder whose native name was Ayuwutash. He instilled great pride in his children and grandchildren. He loved attending tribal events with his brother Stephen and cousin Ron Helme. He was happiest watching his grandkids dance in the circle. He also enjoyed playing bass guitar. He was a lifelong musician and loved to Jam with his brother Steve and best friend Mark Pereira.
His Funeral Service will be held on Thursday at 10 AM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. Visitation will be on Thursday morning from 9-10 AM prior to the service. Burial will be in Rural Cemetery. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to this go fund me page https://www.gofundme.com/tx5n5nkg