JO ANN HELTON

Jo Ann Swint Helton, 87, passed away on May 19, 2022, at her home in Plano, Texas.

Jo Ann was born in Arcadia, Louisiana on August 7, 1934. After graduating from Homer High School where she lettered in basketball, she attended business school in Baton Rouge and enjoyed a long career at Aulds, Horne and White as a  Vice President until her retirement. She traveled all over the world with her friends. She was a member of a WIBC bowling team and they competed in tournaments throughout the country.

In July 1984, Jo Ann married the love of her life, Art Helton, in Bossier City.  They shared a love for neighborhood gatherings, helping people in need, listening to gospel music, traveling, boating, fishing, bowling, card games, video games, crossword puzzles, gardening, and delighting in family.

After Art’s passing, Jo Ann was involved with the many activities of The Remington at Valley Ranch.  She served as an official ambassador for the facility and never passed up an opportunity to welcome people helping them adjust to their new home.  She truly loved living there for 17 years and cherished her friendships with residents and staff.  Jo Ann believed everyone had a story to tell and was eager to hear their story.

Jo Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Madden and Brooksy Owens Swint; her husband, Art Helton; and granddaughter, Lena Helton.

She is survived by her brother, Paul Swint (Jo Anna); stepson, Bob Helton (Sonja); stepdaughter, Marcy Allison (Dirk); grandchildren, Summer Dale (Layton), Brittney Patterson (Seth), Kourtney Free (Mason), and Val Helton.  She also leaves behind 7 great-grandchildren, Ansley, Macy, Jillian, Emerson, Jules, Paisley and Kason as well as numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and other relatives and friends.

The family will  hold a private service at a later date at Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, Florida where she will be laid to rest next to her husband.

We wish to thank the people at The Remington at Valley Ranch and Prestonwood Court for their genuine love and friendship.  There are no words to express our appreciation for all those involved in caring for Jo Ann whether at a doctor’s office, rehab, hospital, or hospice.  You showed such love and care, and we are deeply thankful for you all.