Todd Jay Helms

Jun 1, 1962 -

Jan 9, 2026

Todd Helms of Anchorage, Alaska, passed away unexpectedly on Jan. 9, 2026. He was born in Jacksonville, Fla., to James and (Charlotte) Darlene Helms. Todd graduated from Washington High School in Washington, Ill., joined the U.S. Air Force soon after and trained as a meteorologist, beginning his lifelong love of weather. Todd was a proud Air Force veteran, who served with distinction during the First Gulf War achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. He was awarded the Air Force of Achievement Award with Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Force Good Conduct Award with two Bronze Leaf Clusters and the Air Force Short Tour Overseas Ribbon. His time in service along with his military specialty led to him working in Alaska as a meteorologist and ultimately falling in love with the state. He transitioned to the National Weather Service in 1991 and moved to Yakutat beginning his Alaska adventures. Eight years later, Todd moved to King Salmon and finally Anchorage. After retiring from the NWS, he started a second career with the IT department at First National Bank Alaska for almost 20 years before retiring in 2022.

Todd was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bruce Helms; son, Nicholas Helms; grandson, Benjamin Austin; and two of the best rescue dogs a man could wish for: Chena and Kirby.

Todd is survived by his wife of 25 years, Angela Helms; and their blended family of four children: son, Nathaniel Helms of Joliette, Ill.; son, Joshua Austin (Kiersten) of JBER; daughter, Rose Bingham (Josh) of Tecumseh, Okla.; and daughter, Toni Kynard (Michael) of Kodiak. Todd loved his two granddaughters who were the light of his life, Emma Bingham and Charlotte Austin. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Sharon Autrey of Shawnee, Okla.; stepmother, Katheen Helms of Washington; and many family members in the Lower 48 states.

Todd was a member of Anchorage Grace Church, the family sends a special thank you to his good friend Michael. Todd enjoyed cutting down trees with his friend Ed and providing free firewood to others. He also spent time volunteering at the American Legion with his friend Alan. Todd found delight in riding his Harley Davidson roundtrip to Girdwood, often accompanied by Kirby in his luxury dog bag.

Todd will be laid to rest at Fort Richardson National Cemetery, Alaska. A service and celebration of life is planned for summer 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family recommends donating to WarDogs Making it Home, https://wardogsmakingithome.org.