ROCHELLE — Junior W. “Bug” Helton, 71, passed away Sunday, June 17, 2018 at his home. Junior was born May 3, 1947 in Barbourville, Ky., the son of Roy A. and Emma (Prichard) Helton. He was united in marriage to Joy Ann Chambers on Aug. 4, 1978.
Junior was a long time employee of the Eaton Corporation, retiring after over thirty years of service. He honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, earning a purple heart and a bronze service star. Junior was a loving and dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother who would do anything for his family.
Junior is survived by his children, Robert W. (Barb) Helton of Franklin Grove, and Barb (Jack) Evans of Cosby, Tenn.; eight grandchildren, Kristin (Drew Kaufman) Helton, Chaz Evans, Amber Helton, Cheyenne Evans, Steven McBride, April McBride, Amanda Long, and Brittney Long; two great-grandchildren, Leah Kaufman and Colton McBride; a sister, Doris Jean Lay; and many in-laws, extended family and friends.
In addition to his parents, Junior is preceded in death by his wife, Joy, on July 14, 2015; a sister, Barbara Ann Helton; and a brother-in-law, Gordon Lay.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 21 at the Unger-Horner Funeral Home, 400 N. Sixth St. in Rochelle with Pastor David Rogula officiating. Visitation will be on Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Trinity Memory Gardens, Rochelle, with military honors provided by the Eastern Lee-Ogle Honor Guard.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established. Please visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.