Earnest Wayne Helton

Earnest Wayne Helton, 88, went to his Heavenly Home on August 27, 2026.

Earnest was preceded in death by his parents, Wes and Syble Helton; his brothers, Bill, Frank, Harold, and Alvis; his sisters, Jeraldine Morgan and Mona Barbrow; and his beloved wife of 58 years, Minnie Helton.

Earnest is survived by his devoted daughter, Anita Fritts (Mike); grandchildren, Heather Perkins (Nicholas) and Elijah Fritts; and great-granddaughters, AnnaLynne and Avery. He is also survived by his brothers, Charles Helton, with whom he shared a special bond throughout the years, and Johnny Helton. He leaves behind special friends, Sheila and Byron Johnson.

Earnest was a native of Saltville, Virginia, and spent much of his life devoted to his faith, his family, and his work. He served as an elder at First Christian Church for many years and was later a member of First Free Will Baptist Church of Mountain City. During the latter part of his life, Earnest made his home in Mountain City, Tennessee.
In his younger years, he enjoyed playing baseball, and his love of sports remained with him throughout the years as he enjoyed watching games with his family. Earnest had a strong work ethic and took great pride in working hard throughout his entire life. He retired from Westinghouse in Abingdon, VA.

Above all, Earnest loved his family. He cherished the time spent with those he loved and found joy in the simple things in life. He especially enjoyed listening to gospel music and singing along to the songs he loved. He would never turn down a large McDonald’s coffee (2 creams).
Earnest leaves behind a legacy of faith, hard work, love, and devotion to his family. Though he will be greatly missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with his beloved Minnie and has found eternal rest in his Heavenly Home.

Until we meet again. You will forever be loved and never forgotten.

No formal service will be held per Earnest’s request. Memorial contributions can be made to — First Free Will Baptist Church in his memory.

Online condolences and memories may be sent to the family through our website at www.huxlipfordfh.com.

Hux & Lipford Funeral Home 300  W. Main Street, Mountain City, Tennessee is honored to serve the family of Earnest Wayne Helton.