Jerri L. Helmreich

Jerri Louise (Koher) Helmreich passed away on Monday, August 15, at Aultman Hospital. Born on March 22, 1944 in Anniston, Alabama, to the late F. Orrville (“Okey”) and Gladys (Noah) Koher, she graduated in 1962 from the former Lincoln High School, received a B.S. Ed degree from Ashland University and M.A. Ed degree from Malone University. Jerri had a varied and successful 46 year career in the field of education including the following: Director/Kdg teacher of the Weaver CDC at Malone University, Owner/Director/Teacher at The Launching Pad CDC in Massillon, English Teacher at the English Institute in Iraklion, Crete, Greece, Elementary teacher in both the Canton City and Massillon City Schools, Parent Partner Coordinator of the SPARK Initiative in Stark County, and instructor of Early Childhood Education workshop/courses for both Malone University and in the private sector for those working in the field. Additionally, Jerri received the Early Childhood Advocate of the Year Award presented by CAAEYC in 2007. She also received the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the Canton Lincoln High School Alumni Association. Jerri was considered a leader in Early Childhood Education in the Stark County area for many years. She was preceded in death by her daughter Stacy (Helmreich) Gardner in 2015. Survivors include her loving husband of 55 years, George, daughter Cory of Canal Fulton, sister Pat (Bob) Huffman, son-in-law Michael Gardner, five grandchildren: Mikayla, Ashton, Nate, Noah, and Dylan. Visitation will be held at the Paquelet Funeral Home in Massillon, on Sunday, August 21, 2022 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. A Celebration of Jerri’s life will be held at the Paquelet Funeral Home on Monday, August 22, 2022 at 1p.m. with the family receiving friends from noon until the time of the service. Interment will be at Rose Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to Hammer and Nails – 1404 – 7th Street N.W., Canton, OH 44703 or to a non-profit of one’s choice. Messages of sympathy and support can be made to www.paquelet.com. Paquelet Funeral Home & Crematory – 330-833-3222