Bonnie L. Helms, 69, of Chesapeake Beach, MD passed away on Sunday, May 12, 2024 at her home. Born on October 28, 1954, in Baltimore, MD, she was the daughter of George Eston Clayton and Margaret Alice (McKenzie) Clayton and was raised in Riverdale, MD.

Bonnie married the love of her life, John S. Helms, and the two celebrated 51 years of marriage on March 19, 2024. They raised their daughter, Lorraine, at their home in Calvert County. Lorraine later married Rich Pellegrino and they had a son, RJ Pellegrino, who was Bonnie's pride and joy. She loved being "Grandma" to RJ. Bonnie also enjoyed being outdoors, gardening, and loved her dogs. Bonnie's Christian faith was a big part of her life and she was always willing to help those in need. Bonnie's true joy in life was her family. She loved her family deeply and was always trying to keep in touch with everyone.

Bonnie started a career with the Federal Government in the early 1970s at the Washington Navy Yard, DC. Bonnie retired in March 2018 as a Research Analyst for the Office of Naval Intelligence in Suitland, MD after a long and distinguished career.

Survivors include her husband, John ("Jesse") Helms; daughter Lorraine Pellegrino and her husband Rich; and her grandson RJ. Also surviving are her sisters Peggy Vaughn and her husband Donald of Arizona; Barbara Maisonneuve and her husband Lucien of Virginia; Terri Allen and her husband Donald of Maryland; Karen Clayton of West Virginia; and a brother, John Clayton and his wife Tina of Maryland. Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Robert Clayton and Jerry Clayton; and three sisters Shirley Pilkerton, Nancy Hodge and Janice Graver.

A memorial visitation will be held on Monday, May 20, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by the memorial service at 11:00 AM at Rausch Funeral Home, Owings, MD.

Reception to follow at 12:30 PM at the Holland Point Civic Association (Loveless Building), 919 Walnut Avenue, North Beach, MD 20714.