Rhonda L. Helvey, of rural Akron, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne, at the age of 57. Rhonda was a loving wife, full-time homemaker and strong woman of faith who dedicated her life to family, teaching and her church community.
Born on Nov. 18, 1966, in Columbia City, Rhonda was the daughter of the late Carroll Wilkinson and Janet Anderson Wilkinson. She is survived by her brothers: Gregg Wilkinson, Neil Wilkinson (with wife Cinthia and their sons Josh and Caleb), Steven Wilkinson (with his son Jacob), and Brad Wilkinson (with wife Alicia and their children Reagan, Landon, Ian, Brayden and Hallie).
A graduate of Whitko High School, class of 1985, Rhonda continued her education at Grace College in Winona Lake, getting a bachelor's degree in elementary education. Shortly after, she began her career as a schoolteacher in Weslaco, Texas. Rhonda also spent a brief time working in the Kosciusko County health inspector's office.
On May 22, 1999, Rhonda and Todd were married at Faith Baptist Church of North Manchester. For the past 17 years, Rhonda was a dedicated member of First Baptist Church of Mentone, where she regularly played the piano, taught children’s classes, participated in the AWANA program and helped with Child Evangelism Fellowship.
Rhonda is survived by her beloved husband, Todd Helvey, with whom she shared 25 years of marriage. Together, they were blessed with three sons: Matthew Helvey (and his wife Gabrielle), Jonathan Helvey and Seth Helvey. Also surviving are Rhonda’s parents-in-law, Dennis Helvey and Connie Hoffman Helvey. Her family was the center of her life, and she devoted herself to nurturing and supporting them with love and care.
Rhonda’s life was a testament to her devotion to the Lord, strong work ethic, and dedication to serving others. Her memory will live on as a shining testimony to the Lord.
The funeral service will take place at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 23 at the Mentone First Baptist Church, 206 S. Oak St., Mentone, with Pastor Tim Farley and Pastor Mike Wilhite officiating.
The interment will take place in the Akron Cemetery, Akron.
Visitation hours will take place from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22 in the Mentone First Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Rhonda’s memory to First Baptist Church of Mentone, where she faithfully served for many years.
Share a memory or send an online condolence at www.hartzlerfuneralservices.com.