By By MaryClaire Foster
The large crowd expected today for Randall Helton, just days after his birthday, will not be gathering for a joyous occasion, but instead to mourn the loss of a dear friend and son.
Helton died in the early morning hours following his 22nd birthday celebration with friends as he was driving to one of those friend’s houses near Presley Street where the accident occurred.
After running off the road at a high speed, Helton hit a power pole causing his truck to flip and he and passenger, Terrell Still, to be ejected before the vehicle stopped, landing on another power pole several yards away.
Still was taken to Atmore Community Hospital where he underwent surgery for a non-life threatening head injury and released the next day.
Lifelong friend Jaime Young said Helton was the type of person everyone loved and could always make you laugh.
His mother said the family takes comfort in knowing he is in heaven, but at this time cannot imagine life without him.
His uncle, Clay Helton, said his nephew had recently spoken with his grandmother about his faith.
They also take comfort knowing Helton was able to take part recently in one of his favorite activities, hunting.
Clay Helton said his nephew was especially close with his son, CC Helton, and bonded over their passions of trucks, four-wheelers and motorcycles.
Other passions of Helton’s were playing his guitar and singing, which Clay said he was very talented at, along with fishing and just living life.