Bill W. Helton

Bill W. Helton, 73, of Kingsport, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 2, 2012. Bill loved to hunt and fish and was known for his hunting dogs. He retired after 32 years of service with Eastman Kodak. Bill spent his last 8 to 10 years at his second home, The Gun Rack. He was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend to many.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, W.M. Helton and Maggie Helton, and niece, Judi Sproles.

Bill is survived by his very special friend, Miss Sally Simpson and son, Michael; son, Tony Helton of Kingsport, Tommy B. Helton of Gate City, VA; daughters, Kristi Helton Bortz of Kingsport, and Keila Helton Runyon and husband, Chad of Kingsport; 6 grandchildren, Brandy Helton, Rachel Helton, Adam Runyon, Alexis Bortz, Sydney Helton and Seth Runyon; great-grandson, Carson Merkel; sisters, Sue Lawson Blackwell of Kingsport, Dot Sproles Emerson, GA, and Jean Rowlett of Kingsport; brother, Jim Helton of Kingsport; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Friday, October 5th from 5-8:00 pm at Hamlett-Dobson, Kingsport. Memorial services will follow at 8:00 pm with Minister Tim Lawson officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude's Place, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.