Obituary for Charles Curtis Helton (1946-2026)

Charles Curtis Helton passed away peacefully on Monday, January 12, 2026. “

Curt” was born in Corbin, Kentucky, to Berchel and Bernice Foley Helton on July 9, 1946. He spent over twenty years as truck driver, traveling the countryside collecting memories he shared with his adoring family. He was a loving Father and cherished Grandpa; Curt leaves a lasting influence on his children and grandchildren through the knowledge and wisdom he imparted to them. From how to cast a fishing line and tend to a garden, to how to care for horses, he spent countless hours teaching his family to love nature and, most importantly, love each other. He and his surviving son, Josh, were also passionate outdoorsmen who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and archery. Curt was a champion archer who won multiple competitions and awards. When not outdoors, he enjoyed watching football, especially his beloved Denver Broncos.

Curt was baptized in Dayton Ohio and later became a member the Indian Creek Baptist Church in Corbin. He was preceded in death by his parents Berchel W. Helton and Bernice Foley Helton, and his beloved “Granny” Minnie Foley Partin. He is survived by his loving children, Gayle (Mike) Zipay and Joshua Guy Helton, as well as his 3 grandchildren, Stephanie (Kenny) Mosier, Michael Kenton Zipay, and Emily (Michael) Harris. His Aunt Maxine Burnett and many other extended family members and friends will miss him dearly.

Funeral services will be held at the graveside on Sunday January the 18 at 12:00 pm. Burial will be at Campbell Cemetery, off Highway 6, near Indian Creek in Corbin, Ky.

Pallbearers: Michael Kenton Zipay, Kenneth Mosier, Mike Zipay, and Robert Helton.

His family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Alive Hospice in Murfreesboro, TN and their dedicated nursing staff, for the care and compassion they provided.

The Barbourville Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Charles Curtis Helton.