George William Helton

George William Helton of Knoxville, TN, passed away on November 3, 2023 at the age of 83, after a short battle with cancer. George was born on June 16, 1940 in Knoxville, Tennessee. He was a faithful believer in our Lord Jesus Christ and a member of West Haven Baptist Church for over 50 years. He retired from United Parcel Service (UPS) after 32 years of service with safe driving awards every year. At UPS he was also included in the Two Million Miles Club with over 80 times around the world of driving. He bravely served in the United States National Guard Armory and Reserves in the late 50s to early 60s. George was known for being a hard worker and put others before himself. He was generous and found joy in acts of kindness for family, friends, and neighbors.

George was blessed with a large and loving family. He was married to his loving wife Martha for over 61 years and was blessed with four wonderful children, twelve grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren who lovingly called him Papaw. He enjoyed many family vacations, playing golf, tending his garden, fishing, and watching Tennessee Volunteers football and Nascar racing. He and Martha were also blessed to spend winters in Florida for over 20 years.

George is preceded in death by his parents, Ola Beatrice Boling Helton and George Lee Helton, sister Mary Nelle Westmoreland, brother-in-law Bobby Julian, and son-in-law Charlie Raney. He is survived by his wife, Martha; his sons Todd (wife Mary) and Terry (wife Renee); his daughters Lisa Raney, and Julie Garren (husband Dwayne); his grandchildren Alex (husband Andrew), Jon, Zach, Sara, Torrey, Thatcher, Kara (husband Ian), Brad (wife Kaylie), Brett, Ethan, Evan, and Elizabeth; his great-grandchildren Andrew Jr., Knox, Riley, Judah, Lily, and Alyssa; sisters Bettye Julian and Peggye Julian (husband Darrell); and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation for George will be held Wednesday, November 8, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Weaver Funeral Home, 5815 Western Ave, Knoxville, TN 37921, followed by a “Celebration of Life” at 7:00 PM. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date.