Obituaries

John Alexander Helba, Sr.

JOHN ALEXANDER HELBA, SR., of Weirton, WV passed away on April 9, 2026, at UPMC Presbyterian, surrounded by his beautiful family, holding the hand of his loving wife, Theresa, his high school sweetheart of 60 years, married for over 55 years on February 27, 1971. Born on June 16, 1950, in Steubenville to Charles and Wilma Pagur Helba. A 1968 graduate of Follansbee High School, John dedicated over 40 years to the Weirton Steel Company, retiring from the BOP. A dedicated husband and father, a proud man who loved taking care of his family and home, who treasured time spent with his family and friends. John found joy in life’s simple routines. His morning cup of coffee while tackling crossword puzzles, his daily swims at MCC, and watching his favorite teams. He loved camping and fishing at Tomlinson Run State Park and the beach. He found pleasure in gardening and took great pride in making his delicious “Dream Pickle”, a name lovingly given by his granddaughter, sweet Avonlea. He was a naturalist – liked to feed and watch the birds, played volleyball, and playing in the lake with his precious granddaughter, and especially loved dancing with his wife. His sons, John and Jeff, were his pride and joy. Holidays and special occasions were always festive in John’s world. He loved celebrating life with them. Family vacations were some of his most cherished memories.John will be remembered for his kind heart, infectious smile, and unwavering love for his family. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brother, Charles Helba, and sister, Joan Mullavey. Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Theresa (Zahora), his sons John A. (Michelle) Helba, Jr., and Jeffery A. Helba, all of Pittsburgh; brother Gary (Charlotte) Helba of Weirton; sisters Katherine Adams of Weirton, and Anne (Earl) Smith of Steubenville; and the apple of Jedo’s eye, his granddaughter, Avonlea Zahorarose Helba. He will be cremated at the Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home Crematory.