Jackie “Jack” Helfrich

Jackie “Jack” Helfrich, 90, of Johnston City, Illinois, passed away after a life filled with family, friendship, service, laughter, and love.

Jack was born on November 8, 1935, to Joe and Mary (Nargle) Helfrich, who preceded him in death. On February 16, 1957, he married Julia “Joy” Stallings, and together they shared 65 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in 2022.

Jack proudly served his country in the United States Navy aboard the USS Essex aircraft carrier. During his time in the Navy, he played a multitude of sports and received accolades in boxing and basketball. His service also gave him the opportunity to travel, including a memorable journey to the equator. He loved to talk about ‘Crossing the Line’ ceremony, where he went from a Pollywog to a Shellback.

Jack lived life fully and enjoyed the simple things that brought people together. He loved to hunt, fish, can pickles and peppers, and spend time with his family and friends. Many will remember the fish fries, gatherings, parties, love, and laughter that surrounded Jack wherever he was. He was Member of the Buccaneer's Club and St. Paul's Catholic Church. He had a way of making people feel welcome, and his presence will be deeply missed.

Jack is survived by his children, Tammy (Gary) Bandy, Kim (David) Babington, and Greg (Denise) Helfrich; grandchildren, John Michael Smith, Jeremy Bandy, Brent (Emma) Bandy, Hannah Helfrich, Sophie Helfrich, Brenden Helfrich, Connor Babington, and Grayson Babington; and great-grandchildren, Brees Smith, Lyla, and Bodhi.

He is also survived by his son, Shane (Stacy) Harris, along with grandchildren (Twins)Garrett and Annalise Harris of Florida. Jack learned of his son four years ago and was blessed with the opportunity to meet him and his family, though illness had already begun to take its toll.

Jack is further survived by his twin sister, Jeanne Hatfield; brother George Helfrich; sister-in-law, Jan Helfrich, sister-in-law, Rose Stallings; brother-in-law, Charles “Bob” Stallings; many nieces and nephews; special niece, Natalie Jamieson; and great-nephew, Nate Jamieson

He was preceded in death by his brother, Carl Helfrich; Brother-In-Laws, Jack Hatfield, Troy Stallings, Raymond Stallings, Homer Stallings, Bill Elliot; Sister-In-Law Carol Helfrich, Jeanette Elliot, Tiny Stallings, Phyllis and Jo Stallings.

The family extends special thanks to Hospice and to Jack’s caregiver, Frankie Miller, for their care and support.

Jack Helfrich was truly one of a kind. There will never be another like him. He will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and the Johnston City community that mourns his loss.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 P.M. Friday August 7, 2026, at Murman & Wilson Funeral Home in Johnston City. Funeral Mass will be Saturday August 8, 2026, at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Johnston City at 10:00 A.M. with Father Francis Tambala officiating. Military Honors will follow, conducted by the Marion V.F.W, American Legion, Funeral Honor Detail.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the ERIN & Judy Davis Foundation providing for The Night’s Shield, Hospice of Southern Illinois, or St. Paul’s.