Impressionist-Comedian Dies

Category: Entertainment Published on Wednesday, 30 September 2009 13:51 Written by Chronicle Staff

Alturo Shelton was, in some ways, a throwback to other eras. As increasingly raunchy comedy became more popular, due to the “Def Jam Comedy” TV show, a changing society and many other factors, Shelton kept it clean. He had made a commitment.

During his latter years he didn’t always work as consistently as he had previously, but he was determined to honor that commitment. He still, however, performed on BET’s “Comic View” and other television shows.

The impressionist- comedian, who was well known throughout metro Detroit and beyond, made his transition on Saturday, Sept. 19. At the time of his passing he had been working on cruise lines around the world, getting big laughs with his impressions of Redd Foxx (as Fred Sanford), Stevie Wonder and Sammy Davis Jr. and others, even Aretha Franklin.

Shelton was a blessing in that he maintained such high professional standards. Like Sinbad, he knew it was possible to be funny without being dirty.

Services took place Monday, Sept. 28, at O.H. Pye Funeral Home. He is survived by his wife, Lavoris, two daughters and one granddaughter.