Doris P. Helmick

Doris Joan Helmick (née Peters), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026.

Doris was a surprise twin, born at home on Concord Avenue in Wilmington, Delaware, on May 14, 1933, to Elva and Vincent Peters. She graduated from Mount Pleasant High School and went on to attend Goldey-Beacom Secretarial School.

Doris met the love of her life, Doy Helmick, at a YWCA dance. Together, they could really cut a rug. They married in 1953, and Doris became a homemaker in 1955 with the birth of the first of their six children.

A talented seamstress in her younger years, Doris lovingly made clothing for herself and her children. Later, she discovered a passion for quilting and belonged to several quilt guilds. She treasured the camaraderie of her quilting friends and the many adventures they shared. Doris was also an excellent cook and enjoyed cake decorating, creating beautiful cakes for family celebrations and special occasions.

Doris and Doy shared a love of camping and adventure. Together they traveled throughout the country in their RV, including two memorable trips to Alaska and another to Nova Scotia. Doris was always ready for the next journey. Even in her later years, she loved nothing more than going for a drive and enjoying the scenery.

Above all, Doris cherished her family. She especially loved being involved in the lives of her grandchildren. Family camping trips were among her favorite memories, as were attending sporting events, school activities, and other milestones that were important to them.

Doris was an avid dog lover and opened her home and heart to many little dogs over the years. As her children grew up and left home, there always seemed to be room for another beloved canine companion. Her latest, Sunshine, remained faithfully by her side until the very end.

Doris was a longtime member of Holly Oak United Methodist Church, where she and Doy were married and raised their children. Following Doy’s passing, she found a new church home at Atonement United Methodist Church, where she actively participated in Bible study and many other church activities.

Doris was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Doy, in 2009; her parents, Elva and Vincent Peters; her twin sister, Nancy; her brother, Paul; and four grandchildren, Kyle, Dylan, Alex, and Heather.

She is survived by her children: Doy Helmick (Beverly), Kathleen Weiss (James), Glenn Helmick (Maryann), Charlene Blanchard (Roger), Blair Helmick (Sharon), and Maureen Lancaster (Michael). She is also survived by 15 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, with several more expected in the coming months, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Milford Place, where Doris resided for the past year and a half, for their kindness and care. Special thanks are also extended to VITAS Hospice - especially her aide Taylor Davis, for the compassionate care and support provided to Doris and her loved ones.

A viewing will be held at the Gebhart Funeral Home, 3401 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE 19703 on Monday, June 22, 2026, from 11:00am until 12:00pm, where a funeral service will begin at 12:00pm.  Doris will be laid to rest with her husband at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Bear, DE following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to VITAS Hospice, 30265 Commerce Drive, Suite 202, Millsboro, Delaware 19966.

To offer condolences, please visit:

Gebhartfuneralhomes.com

302-798-7726

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