Joe Helton

Joe Helton, age 77, of Morganton, North Carolina, passed away at his residence on the morning of Tuesday, November 03, 2020 with his loving family at his side.  Born in Lenoir, North Carolina on July 11, 1943, he was the son of the late Ray and Ollie Mae Price Helton. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Danny Jo Helton (2006); one daughter, Jo Deana Helton (1969); one granddaughter, Deborah Ann Helton; one sister Carolyn Barker; and one brother, Wallace Helton.

An avid woodworker, Joe enjoyed mechanical repairs and collecting different objects.  A kind, caring and gentle man, he truly loved spending time with his family and friends making precious memories. He was a veteran of the United States Army.

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Penny Lentz Helton; one son, Darrin A. Helton (Kelly) of Marion; two sisters, Joyce Beard of Hickory, North Carolina and Doris Mellon of Lincolnton, North Carolina; two brothers, Bruce Helton of Hayes, North Carolina and Bill Helton of Newton, North Carolina; and four grandchildren, Ashton, Ayden, Jacob and Benjamin Helton. 

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Beam Funeral Service in Marion with Rev. Paul McClure officiating.  Military honors will be provided by the United States Army. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., prior to the service, at the funeral home.

Those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mr. Helton’s memory are asked to consider, Mt. Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, C/O, 135 Cobblestone Drive, Marion, North Carolina 28752.