Obituary for James Clyde Helton

James Clyde Helton, age 93 of Turtletown, TN and previously of Hayesville, passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2025.

James was born in Cherokee County, NC to the late Clyde and Lena Goforth Helton and the oldest of his 13 siblings. He had worked as an accountant until he retired at 88 years of age. James loved his family, loved to work, and traveling. He visited several countries and all fifty states with his wife and daughter. He always had a smile and was easy going. James was an active Mason, Shriner and an American Legion member. He was a United States Army veteran and served in the Korean war. James was of the Baptist faith, deacon and was a member of South End Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Zell Haney Helton; a brother, Edward Helton and wife, Annette; a sisters in law, Delene Helton and Claudena Twiggs; and his sisters, Margarie Coker, Barbara Etta Helton and Carol Strom; brothers in law Dean Coker, Dewey “Shug” Sutton, and Garland “Junior” Haney.

He is survived by his daughter, Michelle Thomas; his brothers, Russell Helton of Eldorado, Illinois, John Helton (Elva) of Manning, SC, Harold Helton (Gaynell) of Murphy, Dan Helton (Rhena) of Ducktown, TN and Barry Helton of Murphy; his sisters, Frances LaPerriere (Darel) of Murphy, Bonnie Ruth Moore (Kenneth) of Andrews and Mary Jane Huie (Dave) of Lithia Springs, GA; brother in law, Bill Strom and sister in law, Becky Haney; and many special nieces, nephews and other family members.

A joint Celebration of Life for James and his beloved wife of 62 years will be held at a later date.

Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.