Shirley Helmkay

Shirley Jeanette Helmkay departed this world peacefully at Huntsville Hospice on October 9, 2026, at the age of 95.

She was the devoted wife of the late Elwood Helmkay. United in matrimony in 1952, Shirley and Elwood shared decades of happiness up until his passing in 2013.

A cherished mother to Marla Robinson (Frank) and Jennifer Helmkay, Shirley's legacy lives on through her family. As a grandmother, she delighted in the accomplishments of Erin Robinson (Adam Rosati), Katie Carpino (Andrew), Michael Scaglione, Matthew Scaglione, and Sadie Scaglione. Her heart was filled with pride for her great-grandchildren, Rachel, Olivia, Ryan, Chloe, Christian, Elena, and Antonio.

In her youth, Shirley's passion for sports was nurtured at Secord Public School.  She excelled at her position as pitcher in baseball and was fondly called 'Mickey' by her teammates. During her teenage years, she worked as a "soda jerk" while attending East York Collegiate. Her career ventures took her from the fashion industry in Toronto to bookkeeping for a couple of firms, and finally to the family business alongside Elwood.

Shirley found joy in tending to her beautiful gardens at her home, had a particular fondness for cacti and could easily be lost in the pages of a good book. Her grace, warmth, and zest for life remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

The family would like to thank all of the incredible staff at Huntsville Hospital & Hospice Huntsville for their care of our mother during these last months & days, especially Doctors Aleena & Brooke.

For those who wish, and in memory of Shirley, donations to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation or to Huntsville Hospice would be lovingly appreciated by the famil