Alfred E. Upshur was born on March 1, 1942, the third child of four to the late Christeal and Melvin Upshur. Alfred known as Al, Box, Upshur, Ermie and papa was born in Jamaica, Queens.

Alfred attended and graduated from the New York Public School System. After graduating from John Adams High School, he entered the service (Army) and served six years with an honorable discharge.

Alfred was joined in holy matrimony to Alma Jean Cephus on May 30, 1965, his childhood sweetheart. A marriage that lasted 46 years resulting in four children; Orlando, Terence, Ramona and Geraldo. Not only being a father his biological children, he raised and fathered his sister-in-law, Tammy Cephus and her two children, Ackcamezn and Ackquaya (who was his kiki doodles and papa big girl) as his very own. He also extended his fatherly support and guidance to numerous family members which is to many to name.

Alfred had several jobs until he settled with the New York City Transit Authority which he retired after serving 20 years. Alfred passion was traveling, cooking, horse races, entertaining with his friends Clyde, Eugene and Willie. He also loved being the “Mayor” of his block giving the name to him by his neighbors.

Alfred will always be remembered as a caring, loving, kind, unselfish individual who would give you his last. He touched so many lives by helping and supporting family, friends and strangers during strenuous times. From the first time you’ve entered his home, Alfred considered you family and you were always welcomed to come back no matter who you were. He was a man of wisdom and knowledge who had the willingness to give advice and moral support no matter the time or day you called upon him. Alfred will always be the “brain” (as he like to call himself), heart and soul of his family.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his loving and devoted wife, Alma Jean; sons, Orlando(Vanikko), Terence, and Geraldo; daughter, Ramona(James); sister, Lavonne( Jimmy); grandchildren, James, Jamese, Malik, Nazhani and Symari; brother’s-in-law, Chester(Cynthia) and Robert; sister’s-in-law, April and Tammy; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, great great nieces, great great nephews, great great niece and cousins.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Alfred Emerson Upshur, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

Affiliations