Erston James Del Kilgo

Del was a graduate of Etowah High School and Jacksonville State University and entered the service in May, 1967. He was Petty Officer 3rd Class Boatswain Mate on the USS Benjamin Stoddert (DDG-22) in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. He was awarded the Navy Achievement Medal for his mission to rescue survivors from the USS Enterprise. Del was the very definition of a Godly and genuine human being with a heart of gold! He loved his family more than anything, especially “his girls.” There aren’t enough words for the amazing husband and father Del was! Anyone who knew Del couldn’t help but love him. His smile would light up the darkest room, and his sense of humor would keep you laughing for days. Del had so many wonderful qualities! He was kind-hearted, loving, giving, trustworthy, loyal, thoughtful, hardworking, and of course was “the good looking one.” There was absolutely nothing Del wouldn’t do for you. Del Kilgo was one in a million!

He is preceded in death by his parents, Erston and Frances Kilgo.

Del is survived by his wife of 46 years, Kathy Kilgo; daughters, Emily and Laura Kilgo; brother Terry Kilgo (Deborah); sister Elaine Sims (late David Sims); brother Jeff Kilgo (Jennifer); and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to organizations close to Del’s heart, Cure Childhood Cancer. Visit https://curechildhoodcancer.org/donate or mail to 200 Ashford Center North, Suite 250, Atlanta, GA 30338 and/or The Alzheimer’s Association https://www.alz.org/.