Global Ministries is saddened to learn of the death of James Helm
James (Jim) Helm passed away on October 29, 2018. For many years, Jim Helm worked with Global Ministries to support the work of Lady Doak College (LDC) in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. Jim and his wife, Anne Helm, first became familiar with the college while on sabbatical from Oberlin College in 1997. The couple returned many times to LDC and supported the work of the college in many ways.
Jim put much energy into raising funds in support of Lady Doak College, establishing with Global Ministries The Lady Doak College Endowment Fund, which provides over $12,000 each year for general support of the college. Jim also worked with LDC alumnae and families with a mission connection with India to establish eight Global Ministries endowment funds that annually provide scholarships for students and researchers of Lady Doak College.
In addition to their fundraising to support the college, Jim and Anne Helm took on many volunteer roles and formed many friendships during their time in India. Individuals from Lady Doak College reflect on the many contributions of Jim Helm, saying:
Jim maintained a beautiful relationship with almost everyone on campus. As much as possible, he and Anne took the time and effort to make a personal connect by visiting homes, celebrating birthdays, attending weddings and being a part of family occasions, and enjoying every bit of it. Jim and Anne contributed at all levels, from cleanliness on campus to the administration at the Board level and beyond as advocates for Lady Doak College.
Archives were his passion. Jim worked painstakingly on building the LDC archives including standardization, digitization, and collection management. His knowledge of the history of Lady Doak College was impressive. His carefully-prepared presentations of the college spoke volumes of the dedicated work behind them.
Jim delivered lectures in History, Social Sciences, and English at Lady Doak College. Jim and Anne helped also with developing the communication skills of students and faculty.
One alumna shares, Jim was very generous in his gifts and kind words. I remember receiving the Alumnae Newsletters he produced faithfully for many years and his efforts in reaching out to Lady Doak College alumnae all over the world.
A memorial service for Jim Helm was held on January 20, 2019 in Oberlin, Ohio. Jim was preceded in death by one son. Jim is survived by his wife Anne, one son, two daughters-in-law, and five grandchildren. Global Ministries is very grateful for his life and service with God’s global mission.