Alfred Boyd Helton, 70, passed away Thursday afternoon at Advent Health in Kissimmee, FL. He was born July 3, 1950 in Gulfport, the third of six and son of Alfred Cleveland and Francine Adeline (Cobb) Helton. Alfred grew up on 31st Avenue in Gulfport and was an active, athletic young man, playing softball, baseball and football. He also enjoyed fishing and spending time on the water, when they weren't playing ball. After high school, Alfred joined the US Navy in 1969, serving as a Boatswain's Mate aboard the USS Saratoga (CVA-60) for one enlistment. After being discharged, Alfred was out for a short time before deciding to re-enlist. He spent the next 21 years as a cryptologist. After retiring from the Navy, Alfred returned home to South MS, but he did anything but sit still. He stayed busy, doing odd jobs here and there...before the casinos came along. When that happened, Alfred found a love for penny slots, visiting often and playing for hours. He did win some along the way, which only fueled his desire to play more. Alfred also enjoyed playing golf and poker, but spending time with family was what he truly enjoyed. He was well-known as the family comedian. He loved a good joke and always had one to share, but if he could pull a good prank on you, that made his day. Having an identical twin brother added to his antics and gave him more opportunities. He is remembered as a loving and always jovial brother, father and grandfather who loved Alabama and New Orleans Saints football. He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. Alfred was preceded by his parents, Alfred C. and Francine Helton, with two of his brothers, Harold Cobb and Terry Wayne Helton, and his loving wife, Evelina "Bozo" Helton. Left to cherish his memories are: one daughter, Kerrie Helton (Bryan Ford) of Orlando, FL and two sons, Derwin Stiglet and Chris (Diann) Stiglet, both of Gulfport; his siblings, his twin brother, Albert (Pam) Helton of FL, Robert (Loretta) Helton of Long Beach, and one sister, Genevieve "Aunt Sis" Reyer, also of Gulfport. Alfred leaves a legacy of twelve grandchildren, six great-grands, and numerous extended family, friends and neighbors through the years. Services are set for Saturday, March 6, 2021 at Trinity Funeral Services in McHenry. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by a chapel service at 1:30 PM. Afterward, Alfred will be laid to rest in Wolfe River Cemetery. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Helton family in their time of need, asking everyone to keep them in your thoughts and prayers over the coming days.
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