Wallace Clark “Wally” Helton, 81, of Bardstown, died Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026 at his home. He was born Dec. 26, 1944, in Bardstown to the late Jefferson and Mary Wakefield Helton.
He was a member of Bardstown Baptist Church. He retired from Jim Beam Distillery and was a self-employed musician in his spare time. He was the best father, grandfather, great-grandfather, husband and friend. He enjoyed his Nashville trips, going fishing and family outings. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and had the privilege of being one of his musical students.
He was preceded in death by four siblings, Joy Ray Helton, Hallie Unseld, Brenda Stallings and Nancy Wayne.
He is survived by his wife, Shirley Routt Helton; two daughters, Sherry (Doug) Sims of Willisburg and Debi (Billy) Parrish of Bloomfield; one son, Rick (LeeAnn) Helton of Bardstown; one sister, Mary Lou (Mark) Durbin; one sister-in-law, Marylon Davis; two brothers-in-law, Billy Stallings and Leroy (Donna) Routt; nine grandchildren, Spencer (Jenna) Sims, Jacob (Casey) Bowman, Kindsey Bowman, Ann Taylor Sims, Austin Bowman, Landon (Carlie) Helton, Baylee Helton, Dalton Parrish and Grayson Parrish; six great-grandchildren, Emily Grace Sims, Kate Sims, Raylynn Cottrell, Jessie Cottrell, Kynzlee Bowman and Jaycee Bowman; and a host of nieces and nephews.
The funeral is 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, at the Houghlin-Greenwell Funeral Home with Bro. Scott Routt officiating. Burial is in the Bardstown Cemetery.
Visitation is 4-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 13, 2026, and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026,
The Houghlin-Greenwell Funeral Home in Bardstown is in charge of arrangements.
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