Helton, Jason D. "Gene" Jr.

Retired From J.D. Helton Roofing Company

  • Thursday, December 14, 2017
Gene Helton
Gene Helton

Jason D. “Gene” Helton, Jr. peacefully passed away on December 13, 2017, at the age of 87 in a local hospital, surrounded by his loving family. 

Gene was a member of Ridgedale Baptist Church and was the unofficial “mayor” of Willow Trace subdivision. He retired from J. D. Helton Roofing Company, was a sergeant in the National Guard 181st Field Artillery Battalion, and a charter stockholder and former chairman of the board of the Bank of East Ridge. He previously served the city of East Ridge as a member of the Better Housing Commission and the Beer Board.  He was a member of the American Legion Post 95.

The real life of Gene Helton is so much more than his many titles.  His giving spirit and deep need to care for others was surpassed by none.  He could be seen riding his scooter daily in the neighborhood, a perpetual smile on his face, putting up garbage cans or delivering newspapers.  In his younger years he “adopted” a lady who could not get around and would deliver her groceries each week.  He offered his porch as a gathering place for his friends and neighbors – porch time was sacred.  But most of all, he loved his family with all his heart.  He was proud of each member and relished in relaying stories of their successes and accomplishments.  Even the kind hospital staff was not spared from his proud tales.  He loved much and was loved by all whose lives he touched.

Gene was the son of the late Jason D. and Tennie Helton.  He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Karen and siblings, Edith Helton, Roy Helton, Dorothy Schrader, Helen Emerson, Granville Helton, J. R. Helton, Emmett Helton, and Benny Helton. 

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Bobbie Helton; daughter, Carol Goss; sons, Cris (Kimberly) Helton, Keith (Mary) Helton; grandchildren, Liz (Chad) Bullard, Kip Helton, David (Katie) Helton, Leah Helton, Lee Helton; four great grandchildren; siblings, Eula Mae (Bill) Russell, Richard (Becky) Helton; a host of nieces and nephews and his Willow Brook porch buddies.

The family would like to thank Nurses Greg Evans, Daniel Love, Eric Frazier, Robin Remme and the entire staff at Erlanger East Hospital for their kindness and care during these difficult past days. 

Arrangements are by the Chattanooga Funeral Home, East Chapel where a Celebration of Life service will be held on Monday, Dec. 18, at 5 p.m. with the Reverend Bill McGinnis officiating. 

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1-5 p.m. prior to the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Barnabas Fund at Ridgedale Baptist Church, 1831 Hickory Valley Road, Chattanooga, Tn., 37421 or to the Ronald McDonald House of Chattanooga, 200 Central Avenue, Chattanooga, Tn. 37403.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaEastChapel.com.

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