CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Walter “Walt” Helmick, a former West Virginia agriculture commissioner and longtime state lawmaker, died Saturday at age 81. The West Virginia Democratic Party announced his passing in a statement, noting his decades of service to the state.

A native of Pocahontas County, Helmick’s long career in public service began locally, serving on the Pocahontas County School Board and the Pocahontas County Commission. He went on to represent his community in the West Virginia Legislature, serving more than 20 years in both the House of Delegates and the State Senate.

Known for his deep knowledge of finance and agriculture, Helmick was a key figure in Charleston and a steadfast advocate for rural communities across the state throughout his time in office.

He was elected as West

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