March 15, 1935, Donald Ray Helton entered this world by the Grace of God. He lived this precious life in accordance with this virtue to the fullest, as a believer of Jesus Christ to be our Savior. He is a saved and baptized member of Hoods Creek Regular Baptist Church on State Route 5 in Ashland. He was born at home in Ashland, a son of the late Leslie and Flora Howard Helton.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Deanna Sue Fields Helton; a son, Michael R. Heltonl and his sister, Reva Helton Swanson.
Don was the owner and operator of Helton Auto Supply located in Boyd County. Along with his late wife Sue, they operated several family businesses and he was a very successful self-made man. He was awarded #1 Businessman of the year by Ashland Better Business Bureau on several occasions. He was a Boyd County High School Graduate and held a business degree from Morehead State University. He was also a Kentucky colonel.
Don loved the outdoors and fishing. He enjoyed listening to bluegrass music and traveled to many bluegrass festivals.
Don's greatest love was his family. He loved his family deeply and was a true gentleman and family man. He worked hard to provide for his wife and children and was very highly respected throughout the community. He will be sadly missed
He is survived by his sons, Jim Helton and Ron Helton and daughters Paula Qualls and Leslie May, all of Ashland; a brother, Paul Helton of Ashland, 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends.
Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2017, at Steen Funeral Home 13th Street Chapel by Brother Leo Ison and Brother Seth Fraley. Entombment will be in Rose Hill Burial Park Mausoleum.
Visitation for family and friends will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday and from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, in honor of his great-grandson, Noah Sparks.
Condolences may be sent to steenfuneralhome.com.
