Obituary of Tahira Ruth Helmer

Tahira Ruth Helmer was born January 21, 1982, died with her family loving her through her death on June 27, 2020. Tahira’s health struggles commenced at birth and remained three months in the neonatal intensive care unit at SMH. Her doctors called Tahira a miracle baby as much of her recovery could not be explained by their medical efforts.

Tahira was named after Tahirih a Persian woman suffragette who died for her beliefs and was known for her fearlessness. Those who know Tahira know that her name was so fitting. Over the course of her life Tahira faced numerous health challenges and showed tremendous strength and courage throughout.

Tahira was raised by her mother Christine Helmer and her steadfast stepfather Lee Ludwig. Her father Robert Helmer was an emotional support to Tahira that she came to rely upon. Tahira grew up with sisters Gretchen DePoint (Timothy Pettine), Adriana DePoint (TJ Beatrice), McKinley Ludwig (Steve Pulver) and Miranda Ludwig.

Tahira leaves behind special family members Betty and Bill Nesspor, “other parents “John and Sharon Joyce and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Tahira was at her best when caring for young children and hopes they will remember her with happiness.

Tahira was blessed in life with loving friends who stuck with her through thick and thin, including special friend Melanie Switzer DeBadts. Her Sodus Central School 2000 graduating class offered comfort and support during her final days. Tahira pursued a nail technician certificate and one of her life’s pleasure was getting her nails done.

Tahira was diagnosed with kidney failure from birth. She received her mother’s kidney when she was six years old and was the youngest kidney transplant at that time at Strong Memorial Hospital; she received a cadaver kidney in 2002 she was blessed with the gifts of life. Over the last eight months she struggled with dialysis treatment and very recently decided that this is not the life that she wished to lead. She made that decision with unwavering, fearless determination. She reassured those who loved her and asked we not be upset that she made her choice to end her suffering. Tahira remained strong with faith through her final breath. Tahira was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in her teenage years and which caused her lifelong additional sorrows. She would hope that we could rejoice for her as she is now free from her earthly struggles.

Tahira will be given a Baha’i burial at Sodus Rural Cemetery Tuesday, June 30 at 5 PM where we can rejoice together for her.

In Tahira’s memory please remember someone who suffers from a mental illness, is lonely, disadvantaged or in need. She would want us to take a moment to offer a kind word or gesture. She disliked feeling judged and would want us to suspend our judgments and remember that we are all part of the human family and need to be loved.