Donald Eugene Helton died December 23, 2025, at his home in Taylor Mill, Kentucky. He was 89. In his final days, he was visited by family and friends, who expressed their love through stories, laughter, tears, Bible verses, songs, and prayers.

Don was born January 27, 1936, in Cincinnati to Bradley and Irene (Fields) Helton. He grew up in the Queen City, as well as on the south side of the Ohio River in Bromley, Hebron, and Constance. In 1980, he moved with his wife and son to Taylor Mill, and resided in the same house until his passing.

As a young man, he had jobs at iconic Greater Cincinnati locations. He collected fares on the Anderson Ferry. He delivered telegrams for Western Union, pedaling out of the Dixie Terminal on a Monark bicycle. And he parked cars for mobsters, entertainers, and patrons at the Beverly Hill Supper Club. He also served a year as president of the Northern Kentucky Modifiers Club, suping up hot rod engines. His longest career was four decades as a bowling alley mechanic and lane resurfacer in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

Don was a semi-pro bowler in the 1960s, sometimes earning more from a night of competing than a day of working at the alleys. One year, he represented Kentucky in bowling's U.S. Open national tournament, being the top amateur qualifier from the Bluegrass State.

Age 46 was transformational. Don's newfound faith in Jesus became the passion of his life, far eclipsing his recreational pursuits. He led Sunday chapel services at several nursing homes across 40 years. Over the same span, he volunteered at Fairhaven Rescue Mission, leading services and collecting grocery donations. A dedicated member of Calvary Baptist Church, he served in addiction recovery, prayer support and elderly meal delivery. His handyman skills assisted countless individuals as well as organizations such as Calvary Christian School.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, his foster parents, Wallace and Lucy Brandenburg, and his wife, Nancy.

Don is survived by his son, Donnie, and his daughters: Donna, Sharon, and Beverly; his grandchildren: Elijah, Emily, Derrick, Devin, Dane, Drake, Chandra, Braydon, Elden and Mason; his siblings, Phyllis, Wayne, Glenn, and Linda; and several great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

All arrangements are Monday, December 29. Calvary Baptist Church in Covington will host visitation 10 a.m.-noon, succeeded by a memorial service. Graveside committal will follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens in Taylor Mill. Swindler & Currin Funeral Home, Latonia is serving the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be given to the Greater Cincinnati Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, Fairhaven Rescue Mission in Covington, or any charity serving the needs of the vulnerable in your community.