Alberto Hilario Picot

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Alberto Hilario Picot, who departed this life on May 29, 2025, at his home in Clearwater, Florida, following a courageous three-year battle with kidney disease. Alberto was born on May 10, 1954, in the Bronx, New York, to the loving parents, Guido Hilario and Venneranda (Santiago) Picot. He was 71 years old.

Alberto lived a rich and diverse life, having called several places home, including Miramar and Hallandale, Florida, as well as Vail, Colorado. However, it was in Clearwater where he spent his final years, surrounded by the love of his family. He married the love of his life, Kelly Frances (Stewart) Picot, on September 29, 1990, in Hallandale, Florida. Their 38 years together were filled with joy, laughter, and an unwavering partnership that formed the backbone of their family.

Alberto was preceded in death by his parents, Guido and Venneranda, as well as his beloved grandmother, “Abuela” Flora Soto. He leaves behind a legacy of love and connection through his surviving family: his devoted wife, Kelly; his son, Richard Hilario Picot, affectionately known as Herra; his daughter, Tonya M. Evans; and his brothers, Guido Hilario Picot and Victor Hilario Picot. He also cherished his cousin, Sonia Henderson, who was like a sister to him.

Professionally, Alberto retired from a successful career in the hospitality industry, where he was known for his charismatic personality and dedication to service. Beyond his work, he found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life: spending time at the beach, snow skiing, honing his skills at the gun range, and sharing memorable moments with his son. Alberto was an ardent fan of watching fights and took great pleasure in listening to Kelly sing, always encouraging her to share her beautiful voice.

Alberto’s greatest achievements were his roles as a father and an uncle. He took immense pride in being a fun uncle to his nieces and nephews, sharing laughter and creating unforgettable memories that will forever be etched in their hearts. His family, the Stewarts and Picots, was of utmost importance to him, and he treasured every opportunity to be with them. He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, having served his country for four years.

A celebration of Alberto’s life will occur on June 14, 2025, from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM, where everyone is encouraged to share their memories of Alberto. The gathering will be held at Veterans Funeral Care, 830 No. Belcher Rd. Clearwater, FL. Friends, family, and loved ones are invited to join in honoring his memory and the impact he made on all who knew him. In place of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to The Wounded Warrior Project, an organization that supports veterans and their families, in recognition of Alberto’s appreciation for service and sacrifice.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful personnel at the C.W. Bill Young V.A. Medical Center, who provided exceptional care and support during his illness.

As we remember Alberto Hilario Picot, let us celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and a deep commitment to family. His spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. Rest in peace, Alberto; you will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Alberto Hilario Picot’s life and legacy are best described by his loving wife, Kelly, who wrote these words.

“What can you say about Alberto he was one of a kind. He served his country in the Navy for 4 years and was very proud to be a veteran . If you met him once or you had the pleasure of having him as your bartender you never forgot him. He knew how to make you feel welcome with his smile and a joke or two and If you were lucky you may have heard one of his stories of which he had many. Being in the hospitality industry was something he loved. He was the host with the most from Coconut Grove in Miami to the best bartender in some of the hottest night clubs across the state like Facade and Storman’s Palace. One of his favorite rolls before he retired was hosting at Café Alfresco on Main Street in Dunedin. He would stand at his Podium to greet you with a smile. People would drive by wave and honk their horn and  yell out “Hey Berto what’s up”. He would always wave back like he knew exactly who it was even though he may not have remembered your name.
He loved his family and friends with a passion Brothers Cousins Nieces and Nephews and he even loved his in-laws. LOL
But what he loved the most was hanging out with his son Richard. Whether it was just talking and laughing or  watching him play sports all the way through high School. He would shout from the stands “Go Herra” and yes there’s a story to that name too.
He also loved listening to me the love of his life for 38 years sing to him it always put a smile on his face.
Back in his healthier days he loved hiking, snow skiing, boating and anything to do with the mountains or the beach.

So here’s to a life so beautifully lived and a heart so deeply loved we will miss you Berto you will live on in our hearts forever.”