Joe Dean Motton, Jr.

Mr. Joe Dean Motton, Jr. was born February 23, 1950 to the late Joe and Bessie Motton, Sr. in West Helena Arkansas. He transitioned from this earthly life December 25, 2022 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Joe accepted Christ as his personal Savior at an early age at First Baptist Church, West Helena Arkansas, where he sung in the choir. Later in life he united with Pettis Memorial C.M.E. Church, West Helena Arkansas. There he served on the Usher Board and was a faithful member until his health declined. Joe received his formal education within the Helena – West Helena School District. He was a proud graduate of Eliza Miller High School, West Helena Arkansas Class of 1968. He continued his educational journey receiving several graduate degrees. Joe was no stranger to work. After high school, he moved to California where he worked a variety of jobs to include: Mattel Toy factory as a forklift driver, Montrose Chemical Plant, various companies as a loss prevention officer and the Department of Motor Vehicle as a Driving Instructor. While living in California, he found love and got married. Out of that union a son was born. Some time later, he married again, with no children resulting from that marriage.  After numerous years of residing in California he returned to Arkansas.  He then began working at Department of Human Services as a Case Worker. In addition, he secured a permanent position as a Substitute Teacher within the Helena – West Helena School District. He also worked as a dispatcher at various police departments. Joe was big on family. He often expressed to his nephews and nieces one of his favorite phrases, “If you can’t be good, be good at it.” Joe is preceded in death by his parents; Joe and Bessie Motton, Sr., a brother; Wash Motton, five sisters; Elizabetha Frye, Linda Young, Carldean Brown, Phyllis Vincent, and Dorothy Love. Joe leaves to cherish his memories a son; Kyron Motton of Los Angeles CA, two granddaughters; Indiel Anise Motton, Imilee Autumn Motton both of Los Angeles CA, three sisters; Gloria Reed of Rialto CA, Deloris Adamson, Connie Smith both of Tulsa Ok, a special niece; Romelia Walker of West Helena AR, and a host nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.