Kenneth Ray Helms

Kenneth Ray Helms, age 66, of Middlesboro KY passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 17, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was born June 1, 1959, in Middlesboro, KY.

Kenneth was a unique and beautiful soul, and those who knew him loved him deeply. His radiant smile was unforgettable.  He was an avid golfer and fisherman, as well as a lover of food, poetry, NASCAR, The Kentucky Wildcats, and music. Kenneth was a member of Trinity Full Gospel Church and happily knew heaven awaited him when he departed this life.

Kenneth is preceded in death by his mother, Beulah Lee (Whitley) Helms; his father, John Buddy Helms; and his brothers, Ernest Wayne Whitley, Richard Helms, and Jeffery Helms.

Survivors include his daughter, Camillia Danielle (Helms) Howells; his "favorite" son-in-law, Ernest Howells; his companion of over 30 years, Janice Knox; and his siblings, JB Helms (Diane) and Vickie Helms.

Kenneth's main joy in life was his grandchildren. Kenneth leaves behind Conley Howells, Carson Howells, Keaton Kennedy, and Catonya Mason to continue their Papaws legacy.

In addition to family, Kenneth had many friends. Kenneth himself specifically wanted to mention: Angel Kennedy, Jennifer Biffle, Alex Miller, Mike and Bertha Prewitt, Ira "Butchie" Hamblin, Bobby Brown, Delilah Helms, Debra Tye Bergen, Marquita Thomas, and Kathy Wagers, as well as many others too numerous to mention, especially his Mountain View Pace family.

The family will host visitation on Friday, January 23, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., at the Cawood Funeral Home Chapel, Middlesboro KY. Funeral services will immediately follow at 5:00 p.m., with Reverend Jeff Hatfield presiding and Mike Prewitt delivering the eulogy.

Per Kenneth's wishes, there will be no graveside service. Honorary pallbearers will be Matt Helms, J.B. Helms, Butchie Hamblin, Johnny Graster, Steve Gambrel, Andrew, Cameron Smith and Ernie Howells.

Kenneth's family would like to ask everyone who plans to attend, to wear something red.  The family also requests, that all flowers and gifts be sent in Kenneth's name to Cawood Funeral Home directly.

Online register book and condolences are available at www.cawoodfh.com.

All arrangements for Kenneth Ray Helms are under the care of Cawood Funeral Home, Middlesboro, KY.