Donna Helms

Donna Marie Helms, 72, of Park Hills, passed away July 15, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on July 30, 1953, in Bonne Terre, she was a beloved daughter of the late William “Bill” and Opal (Myers) LaPlant. Donna dedicated over 25 years of her life as an aide at the Southeast Missouri Mental Health Center in Farmington, where she touched the lives of many. She had a passion for fishing, enjoyed working on puzzles, loved to read, and cherished her time spent with her grandson, Ian. He was the love of her life. A proud St. Louis Cardinals fan, she always knew how to bring a little joy wherever she went.

She was preceded in death by her parents; loving husband, Samuel “Sam” Helms; two brothers, William LaPlant and the other in infancy, David LaPlant.

Donna is survived by two children, Misty Mackinnon and husband Scott, Paula Bryan and husband Mike; one grandson, Ian; three siblings, Gayle Gillette and husband Allen, Mike LaPlant and wife Judy, Danny LaPlant and wife Stacie; special friend, Jarrod Koderick; special nephew, Dylan Toombs; sister in-law, Mary LaPlant; along with several nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home in Desloge, Monday, July 20, 2026, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. The visitation will resume, Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 9:00 AM until service time at 11:00 AM. Reverend Mike Barton will be officiating. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Leadington.