We honor Joe Dean Helton’s life.  He was born on May 15, 1932, and passed away at 90 years old on March 24, 2023.  He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Alma Helton, and his daughter Cindy Helton, and his many nieces and nephews.   He was preceded in death by his parents Frank Helton and Hazel Helton, a sister Donnie Helton,  a brother Barney Lee Helton and Ida Mae Young, a brother Jerry Frank Helton  and Laura Helton, a brother in law and sister Edward and Doris Weil, a brother David Lonnie Helton, a niece Lea Lanette Helton Buice, and two nephews Gary Dale Helton and David (Tobe) Lonnie Helton.  

Joe had a love for classical music, especially Mozart.  He loved to listen to Fats Domino on his many road trips, and had a long list in his journal of his favorite old songs in various musical genres.   He was an avid reader, and would read  just about anything.  He recently wrote down that his favorite old books were “The Prophecies of Nostradamus”,  Michaelangelo’s  Art History books, and “The Prince” by Niccolo Michavelli.  He loved to study history, and would often share historical facts in conversation.  He loved to tell stories about his life, and family genealogy.  

Joe was an active member of the Masonic lodge for over fifty years, and served as Past Master.   He belonged to the Shriners, and served as Secretary and President.  He was Past Patron of the Easter Star.  He was also part of a gun and shooting club in Parker, and was an excellent shot.   

He had a career with the Department of Transportation in Parker, AZ, retiring after 25 years.  He then served as a Correctional Officer in Texas , retiring after 10 years.  

Joe also served in the United States Air Force until 1958, serving as a Ground Crew Chief for the Convair B36 Peacemaker Bomber.   Joe always said, “Six turning, four burning.”   This was referring to the six turbine engines and four jet engines on this very large bomber. He was very proud to be working on this 10 engine plane,  but it did leave him with a hearing disability.  We honor his sacrifice for this country.   He recently was honored by “The Quilts of Valor Foundation” with a beautiful quilt designed just for him.   This organizations mission is to bring comfort and healing to service members and veterans.   He spoke of his time in the service at the ceremony including  where he was stationed, and his duties performed.   He often spoke of his service at Ramey Air Force Base in Puerto Rico.  

Joe and Alma have lived in many places, and loved to travel.  He was at peace wherever he lived, and made many friends along the way.  He welcomed nieces, nephews and family into his home, and loved them all.  He would spend time in with each and every one of them even in just a conversation.  He was always open to a big hug or a kiss.  

Joe knew the Lord Jesus, and loved to watch Sunday services on the television.  His lasts scripture read was in Proverbs, the book of wisdom.  He loved to have coffee and conversation in the morning with his wife, Alma.  He loved her so much, and always desired that she was provided for after his passing.   Family and friends from all over the country truly loved him, and will miss him so much.

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