Harrell Custer Helf was born on October 30, 1925, in Tipton, Oklahoma, the son of Paul Vernon and Lota Whitaker Helf. He died January 10, 2012, in Chickasha, Oklahoma.
Harrell was an Air Force pilot until WWII ended. He worked for the Internal Revenue Service in Altus and in Oklahoma City, where he married Billie Jean Porter on January 28, 1948.
After attending Oklahoma Christian University in Bartlesville, Ok, Harrell served as minister for several Churches of Christ in Oklahoma and California. He and his family were missionaries in Italy for eight years with Pistoia as home base. After retiring he worked with home Bible classes.
Harrell was preceded in death by his parents; sister Imogene Cost; two brothers, Fred and Ralph Helf.
Survivors include his wife Jean of the home; brother Joe and wife Betty Helf of Kelseyville, Ca; sons Marc Alan and Dianna Helf of Winterset, Iowa, Kevin Lane and Patti Helf of Collinsville, Ok, Page Michael and Katie Helf of Chickasha; daughters Marta Lianne and husband Orville Voyles of Decatur, Ark, and Chrisellen Mullins of Chickasha; and sister-in-law Patsy Porter of Chickasha. Harrell leaves eight grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, former students and beloved friends around the world.
Harrell lived and taught according to 2 Corinthians 13:11:
“Finally brothers, (and sisters), goodbye. Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.”
Harrell was cremated under the supervision of Ferguson Funeral Home. He had specified there be no funeral service.