Genell Helms Emerson

Genell (aka. MeMaw and Nanny) Helms Emerson, was born January 6, 1936, in Stillwell, OK. and she passed peacefully on Aug. 27, 2026. She met and married (James) Carl Emerson in Hobbs, NM where all three of their children were born and later moved to Midland, Texas in 1975, where she and Carl lived for the remainder of their lives.

Genell worked in several positions throughout her career and retired from MI Drilling Fluids in 2011. She was also a member of her sorority Beta Sigma Phi since 1971.

Genell was an active member of Bellview Baptist Church in Midland, where her strong faith was an important part of her life. She especially enjoyed the fellowship of her church family and she loved going on church bus trips. Genell will be remembered for her painted pottery, love of Christmas decorating, competitive spirit when card playing and her love and “stalking” of George Strait.  More than anything, she enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

Genell is survived by her three children, Warren Emerson (wife Sandra) of Magnolia, TX, Rhonda Ables (husband Danny) of Odessa, TX, and Pam Sherman (husband Tracy) of Borger, TX; seven grandchildren, David Emerson,  Tim Cain (wife Jenny), Jamie Cain (wife Misty),  Sarah Lamm (husband Brandon), Sam Stephenson, Tiffany Alba (husband Ralph), and Katy McFadden (husband Luke). She was also a great-grandmother to ten great-grandchildren: Hudson, Porter, Scarlett, Ivy June, Carter, Brooklynn, Jordan, RJ, Emerson and Alexander. She is also survived by her sister, Peggy Dieter (husband Phillip), her sisters-in-law Nelda Helms and Belinda Helms as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Genell was preceded in death by her husband (James) Carl Emerson, parents Vernon and Maude Helms; her brothers, Vernon Helms, Wayne Helms, and Rick Helms; and her sister, Barbara Cannon.

Genell will be remembered by her family and friends for the life she shared with them, her strong faith, the traditions she enjoyed, and the many years of memories she leaves behind.

The family will host a viewing September 8, 2026, 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Nalley, Pickle and Welsh Funeral Home located at 3800 N. Big Spring St., Midland, Texas 79705. Services will be held on September 9, 2026, 10:00 am at Bellview Baptist Church located at 1710 N. Big Spring St., Midland, Texas 79705 followed by graveside services at Resthaven Memorial Park 4616 N. Big Spring St., Midland, Texas 79705.

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