Joe Martin Belton, born September 1, 1939, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2010 after a brief illness. Survived by his wife Mary, sons Chris, Joe, Jr. and wife Jill, Major; daughter DeDee and son-in-law Colt Flanagan, grandsons Tanner, Brendan and Caleb. He is also survived by his former wife Gail and close friends Debbie and Tanika; his loyal canine companions Macy, Pippin & Leo. Joe was a court reporter for over 40 years. He first started his career as a freelance reporter and then was hired by the Hon. Spencer Carver, Judge of the 191st District Court. Upon the appointment of Judge Patrick Higginbotham to the Federal bench Joe had the pleasure of joining Judge Higginbotham’s staff. He then concluded his career as a member of the staff of the late Judge Jerry Buchmeyer. He served in many capacities in both the State and Federal court reporter’s associations, including president of both associations. He will be missed by all of his friends and loved ones. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County or your favorite charity. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, September 9, 2010, in the Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Chapel. Interment will follow at Ridgeview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends for a visitation from 6:30-8:30 p.m., Wednesday at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home.