Mary Joan Helmer, 91, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, peacefully passed away on November 10, 2025, surrounded by family.

Mary Joan Scrivens was born in 1934 in Ypsilanti, Michigan, to Ralph and Martha Scrivens. The youngest of three children, she grew up in Ypsilanti and graduated from Ypsilanti High School, where one of her classmates was her future husband, Richard. After high school, she earned a degree in education from Eastern Michigan University and became a teacher.

Mary and Richard wed in June 1956. Following Richard's job opportunities, they moved to Chicago area, where they had one son. In 1961, they moved to Idaho Falls, and they soon had a second son. Richard worked for various companies at the INEL until his retirement in 1999. After a period of teaching, Mary focused on her family, church, gardening, and volunteer activities.

Mary and Richard became members of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in 1961. Mary held various leadership positions and was a member of the choir. Through church-led programs, she was a participant in volunteer activities, such as home construction with Habitat for Humanity. She was also an active member of P.E.O., and was a supporter of the Museum of Idaho and the College of Eastern Idaho.

Mary was also an active quilter. She was an active member of the Quilt Guild and displayed her quilts at various quilt shows.

She is survived by her sons Gary Helmer of Salem, Ore. and Carl Helmer of Idaho Falls, Carl's wife Angela and their two daughters, son-in-law, and one great grandchild. Mary was preceded in death by her husband Richard and her parents and siblings.

The family would like to express their sincere thank you to Fairwinds- Sand Creek, Alliance Home Health, Aspen Hospice and the staff at EIRMC for their kindness and care over the years.

A memorial service will be held at St. Paul's United Methodist Church, at the corner of 17th Street and St. Clair Road in Idaho Falls. Tuesday November 18, 2025, at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 1730 St. Clair Road, Idaho Falls, ID 83404, or to a charity of the giver's choice.