Eugene Helton of McKinney, Texas passed away on November 20, 2021 at the age of 87. He was born on February 20, 1934 to Charles Albert and Rachel Catherine (Curry) Helton in Milford, Texas. Gene proudly served his country in the United States Army prior to the Korean War. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree from Texas Wesleyan University, a Master’s degree from University of North Texas and did post graduate work at Texas Women’s University. He married Carolyn Jean Radke on June 1, 1961 in Hillsboro, Texas. Gene worked for McKinney Independent School District for 38 years, 15 of those as the principal for McKinney High School. He started his career as a teacher and coach, then became the assistant principal of the junior high school. After his tenure as the high school principal, he rounded out his career as the founder of the Linc Center before retiring in 2001.

Gene is survived by his daughters, Nicki Helton of McKinney, Texas and Stacey Helton of Frisco, Texas; grandchildren, Kade, Ryan and Blake Helton of Frisco, Texas; brother-in-law Jack Radke and wife Kym of McKinney, Texas; nephew Carson Radke of Dallas, Texas; niece Lauren Leick, husband Todd and their children Connor and Ryder of McKinney, Texas; along with numerous other family and friends.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Rachel; brothers Kenneth Wayne and Charles Henry; niece Farren Radke; and his wife, Carolyn Jean.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 noon, Tuesday, November 23, 2021 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home in Allen, Texas. The service will be livestreamed at https://celebrationoflife.tv/blog/eugene-helton. Face masks will be required.