Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

June 7, 2025

Nina Helms Browder

Born and bred in Charlotte, North Carolina, Nina Helms Browder passed away surrounded by love and family. She was the beloved wife of Kenneth G. Browder, Jr., devoted mother to Matt Browder and Scott Browder, and grandmother to Adeline, Lillian, Ella, and Lydia. She is also survived by her sister, Sally Calvert (Don). Nina was predeceased by her parents, Oscar and Catherine Helms.

A proud graduate of Myers Park High School and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Nina spent her life investing in others. She taught elementary school for 15 years—first at Park Road for a year and then at Myers Park Traditional School for 14 years. Her mission as a teacher was simple and powerful: “Make every child believe they can do it.”

After stepping away from the classroom to raise her two sons, Nina later owned and ran a successful business for ten years. Whether in the classroom, at home, or in business, Nina led with confidence, compassion, and a remarkable ability to “get things done.” Her guiding philosophy—“Make your decision and go with it”—was one she modeled daily. She believed in giving back to the community. She served as President of the Auxiliary and on the Board of Directors of Carolinas Medical Center, now Atrium.

Nina had a wonderful positive spirit. She had a unique gift for cultivating friendships, many of which lasted decades. In 1974, she started a bridge club that continues to this day. Nina and Ken shared 45 wonderful summers at Lake Wylie and, in later years, at Elk River in the North Carolina mountains, where she especially enjoyed playing couples bridge with her favorite partner, Frank.

An avid reader, Nina was an active member of two book clubs—one in Charlotte and one in Elk River. She was a die-hard Tarheel fan and cheered them on no matter what the sport. She also had a love of travel, and she and Ken made countless memories exploring the Caribbean and Europe together. Always up for an adventure, one of her fondest memories was driving to Boston in her Mustang right out of college to teach at a Catholic school in a struggling neighborhood—a bold move that earned her pride and a few gray hairs for her dad.

Nina also dedicated twenty-five joyful years to the Chancel Choir at Myers Park United Methodist Church, where her voice and spirit were an inspiration to many.

Her family wishes to thank Susan Clemmons for her devoted care and support during Nina’s final months.

A Celebration of Nina’s Life will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 at Myers Park United Methodist Church, where she faithfully served for so many years. Per her request, guests are invited to wear their favorite color in her honor. A reception will follow at the church. The service will be livestreamed at: https://myersparkumc.org/worship-with-us/funerals/ for those unable to attend in person.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: The Walter Ball Music Fund, c/o Myers Park United Methodist Church, 1501 Queens Road, Charlotte, NC 28207

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28204 (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.