Jean Helmers

Jean Elmburg Helmers, 88, formerly of Leawood, Kan., died May 1, 2026, with her family by her side.

Following her graduation from the University of Wisconsin with a bachelor’s of journalism, Helmers began her journalism career at KMBC-TV before working at TV Guide magazine. Ultimately, she became editor of the society desk at The Kansas City Star.

In addition to her career, she was a longtime civic volunteer, including serving as president of the Crippled Children’s Nursery School (now Children’s TLC) and volunteering with the St. Luke’s Hospital Auxiliary.

She is survived by a daughter, Brooke, and a son, John; a grandson, Will; and many more family, friends and colleagues from around the country.