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Donald Helton Obituary
November 22, 1937 - April 23, 2023
Donald Eugene Helton, age 85, passed away on Sunday, April 23, 2023 at Commonwealth Senior Living. He was born on November 22, 1937, to the late Henry Moses Helton and Mary Ann Scott Helton. Don graduated from Glade Spring High School in 1954, he received his undergraduate degree from Virginia Tech and Master's degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Tennessee. He lived most of his life in Bristol and retired from Raytheon. Don was a member of Pleasant View United Methodist Church. He was a volunteer with the Washington County Historical Society and an active member of the Sons of the American Revolution. Don spent many years involved in family genealogy, tracing all four branches of this family back to Scotland and England. He enjoyed watching Hokie football both at Lane stadium and at home with his family. Don worked very hard preserving the family cemetery.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Joy Eller Helton, sons, Lee Andrew Helton and Donald Scott Helton, and brothers, Robert Kenneth Helton and Roger Lee Helton.
Survivors include his sister, Pat Bartlett and husband, Mike; brother-in-law, Tom Eller; sister-in-law, Gayle McThenia and her husband, Clayton; several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, from 10 until 11 a.m. at the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service. The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, with the Rev. Barbara Farmer officiating. The committal service will take place at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at Glenwood Cemetery in Bristol, Tenn. Those attending the committal service are asked to be at the cemetery by 1:15 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to the Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave. Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601.
The family of Donald Eugene Helton is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service, Main Street location, 427 E. Main Street, Abingdon, VA 276-623-2700.
Memories and Condolences
for Donald Helton
Sponsored by Farris Funeral Service, Inc. – Main Street Chapel.
3 Entries
Carla Denton Isenberg
April 26, 2023
I worked for Don at Raytheon as his secretary for several years. He was a great boss and friend. Deepest sympathy and prayers for the family.
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Charlotte Burnette
April 25, 2023
Don and my husband Curtis Burnette worked together at Unisys many years. Curtis respected Don's ability and good nature
Claudia
April 25, 2023
So sorry to hear about Don. I knew Don for over 50 years. He was a brilliant mind and a kind soul. I loved his humor. My deepest condolences to Jenny and Gabe whom he spoke about often. Don will be missed. I´m so grateful he had Tom as his loyal caretaker. My condolences to Susan who was by his and Joy´s side for so many years. This beloved man touched so many lives and will be deeply missed.
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Memorial Events
for Donald Helton
Apr
26
Visitation
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Farris Funeral Service, Inc. – Main Street Chapel427 E Main St., Abingdon, VA 24210-3407
Apr
26
Funeral
11:00 a.m.
Farris Funeral Service, Inc. – Main Street Chapel427 E Main St., Abingdon, VA 24210-3407
Funeral services provided by:
Farris Funeral Service, Inc. – Main Street Chapel427 E Main St., Abingdon, VA 24210-3407
People and places connected with Donald
Bristol, VA
Bristol Herald Courier
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