On March 16, 2024, Roy Beasley Barton, Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) U.S. Army (Retired), passed away peacefully at home in Helena, MT with family by his side. Roy fought kidney disease for most of his life and was recently diagnosed with bone cancer. Roy was 74 years old.
Roy was born in 1949 in Centreville, Mississippi to Clarence “CC” Barton and Remola Barton of Lake Charles, Louisiana. Roy and his siblings: Stephanie McCalla, Lake Charles, LA, Kathryn Beasley, Lafayette, LA, and Cliff Barton, New Orleans, LA have been separated by great geographic distances, but remained close and spent as much time together as possible.
Roy graduated McNeese State University in 1974 with a BS in Forestry and later earned a MA in Organizational Leadership from Chapman University. Roy commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army in 1974. During his time in the Army, Roy served tours in Korea and Germany as a helicopter pilot. Roy retired from the Army in 1998.
Roy married his “High School sweetheart” Zona King Barton in 1988. Roy and Zona enjoyed traveling the world together and spending time with family.
After the Army, Roy and his family settled in Kalispell, MT where he taught Junior ROTC at Flathead High School until he fully retired in 2002. After the birth of their granddaughter, Roy and Zona moved to Helena, MT in 2015.
Roy enjoyed hunting and camping, but his favorite past time was fishing. In Roy’s final years, he spent as much time fishing as he could.
Roy is survived by his wife Zona; son Andrew; daughter-in-law Heather; granddaughter Kenzie; soon to be named Baby Barton; and stepson Christan “Kit” Delafield. Along with his mother, brother, sisters, nieces, nephews, and numerous friends who were like family. Roy was preceded un death by his father, CC Barton.
For numerous years Roy received treatment at the St. Peter’s Health dialysis clinic. Roy’s family wishes to thank all the nurses, doctors, and other employees it takes to run the center, for the years of love and service they provided him.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home in Helena, MT. A celebration of Roy’s life will be held in Helena, MT and Lake Charles, LA at a later date to be determined. Condolences can be sent to www.aswfuneralhome.com.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Al Page says
Roy was a great friend of mine and fellow officer in the Army. He was always available to help with anything, both in the military and personally, and was the friend you could always confide in no matter what. You will be greatly missed, my friend, but now you can rest in peace in the comforting hands of our Lord and Savior. Jerrie and I are praying for Zona and the other family members for their loss.
Phil St Romain says
Roy and I attended McNeese University together. He was instrumental in my signing with his fraternity. He was a great mentor throughout my college years at McNeese University. Roy was a brother to me. He visited us in Colorado about 15 years ago. We had a great time and visit. Judi and I send our heartfelt sorrow to his family and friends. Rest in peace Roy. Thank you for entering my life and being a part of it. Sincerely Phil St Romain
Joslyn Hunt Dolan says
Roy was definitely “Army Strong”.
I so love Roy’s picture.
It captures his kind, loving smile and his love of the outdoors.
My thoughts and prayers are with Zona and the entire Barton family.
Joslyn Hunt Dolan
Doris Romanisko says
Doug and I are saddened with the news of Roy’s passing. We are grateful for the opportunity to get to know him with the relocation to Helena. Our condolences, Zona and Andrew, and to all of his family and friends. Fish on!
Julie and Rick Massaro says
Zona, Andrew, Heather, Kenzie, and all of Roy’s family,
Our deepest condolences to you. May it bring you comfort to know he is free of pain and probably catching some massive fish up there!
Zona, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help with lawn work, house work…whatever! We’re just a couple “blocks” away!
Much love to you all!
Rick and Julie Massaro
Mark Dean says
I have not seen Roy in about 30 years and have frequently though of the great times we had together in our teens. I wish the best for his family.
Connie Roope says
Zona, and family, I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your dear husband and father, Roy. Despite a lifelong health battle, he fought a valiant effort to live life to the fullest. Although I do not know your kids, Zona, I know the amazing care you provided Roy over these years and your dedication to his comfort. I pray Roy is at rest now and that your memories of him bring you all comfort during this difficult time. Blessings, Connie Roope, PPQ