Dorothy “Rita” Little Helton passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on the morning of March 27, 2019. Rita was born on December 4, 1935 to Marion “Peb” Little and Josephine “Jo” Struppa Little in DeLand, Florida. She was a lifelong member of Shades Valley Presbyterian Church, as is the love of her life, husband Ben Coleman Helton. Rita was an avid Birder, devoted much time in service to others and was a past-board member of the First Light Women’s and Children’s Shelter. Rita is preceded in death by her parents, Peb and Jo Little and brother-in-law Joe Evans. She is survived by her husband Ben Helton; daughter Ellen Anderson and spouse Michael Wilson; son Paul Helton and spouse Kimberly Helton; sister Ellen Evans; niece Mindy Mock and spouse Bill Mock; grandson Weston Williams and fiancé Bridget Steinman; grandson Carson Williams and girlfriend Hannah Bivens; and great granddaughter Caroline Williams. A memorial service will be held at Shades Valley Presbyterian Church on Saturday, March 30 at 3pm with visitation starting at 2pm. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to First Light Women’s and Children’s Shelter.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18