Thomas James Helms

Thomas James Helms

New Braunfels, TX

With hearts full of love and sorrow, we announce the passing of Thomas James Helms, mostly known as Tom, who left us far too soon on February 26, 2025, in New Braunfels, Texas.

A Celebration of Life will be hosted at Landa Park, New Braunfels, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Friday, March 28. Timing may vary as plans are made.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Iowa on Saturday, May 10 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Backbone State Park near Dundee, Iowa. A Facebook invite will be sent out for further details.

For those attending the New Braunfels service, mementos and photo albums will be available for friends and family to take as keepsakes.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

Born on November 29, 1967, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Tom lived a life filled with laughter, love, and an endless appreciation for the people around him.

From an early age, Tom was never one to sit still. He attended Iowa State University from 1986 to 1989 before moving to Houston, Texas, in 1989, where he built a life full of hard work, adventure, and deep connections. For most of his life, he was his own boss, running a crating business and working as a skilled handyman. His talent for woodworking was unmatched, and he took great pride in everything he created. More recently, he found joy in working as a porter at San Marcos Toyota, a job that allowed him to do what he did best - talk to people, make them laugh, and leave a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Tom was, without question, the life of the party. His Cheshire Cat grin, booming laugh, and quick wit made every room brighter. Whether he was at Old Ice House or The Happy Cow playing pool, shuffleboard, or Golden Tee, or out on the water with a fishing rod in hand, he knew how to make life fun. He loved watching old movies, golfing, playing dominoes (even if he got a little cranky when he lost), and spending time with the people he loved most. He never met a stranger - only friends he hadn't yet introduced himself to.

Family was everything to Tom. He was a loving father to his three children, John (37), Felecia (33), and Alec (25), and a proud grandfather to Caden and Kenzie. He also adored his daughter-in-law, Shaunna, John's wife. He was the cherished son of Sam and Karen Kremer and the late Ray Helms. He was a beloved brother to Mike (and his wife, Jodi), Lonnie (and his wife, Connie), and Keri.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Cindy, who passed nearly four years ago. Though his time with us was cut short, his love, laughter, and unforgettable presence will live on through his family, friends, and everyone lucky enough to have known him.

Above all else, Tom Helms was a man who loved deeply, laughed loudly, and left a mark on everyone he met. His favorite sayings, his legendary stories, and his ability to bring joy to any moment will never be forgotten.

Dad never wanted a funeral, and he sure as hell wouldn't want us moping around. He'd want us to keep living, laughing, and having a damn good time-By God!

Legends Funeral Home, San Marcos, Texas, is assisting the family with arrangements.