Clifton Vincent Sykes was born on January 9, 1962 in Newark, NJ to the late Helen Deans(Bailey) and the late Clifton C. Sykes. He transitioned on October 16, 2024.

Clifton began his formal education in the Newark public school system. After graduating from West Side High School he continued to live and work in Newark, NJ. Clifton made a career at Cornell Hall in Union, NJ where he met and married his wife, Nicole Sykes, in 2008.

Clifton was known for displaying his humor, love and affection amongst his family and friends. His family and friends had many nicknames for him such as Bubba, Vince, Pete, Cliff and Uncle B. Clifton’s famous saying was: “If it doesn’t have a score it shouldn’t be on TV”. He was a true Pittsburgh Steelers fan (Black and Yellow) and New York Yankees fan. Clifton greeted everyone with the words “what’s happening” and continued to talk about pick-its or sports. When speaking to family and friends Clifton always ended his conversation with (“I love you”). Clifton was really liked in the community and helped everyone he came in contact with.

Clifton was preceded in death by his parents, Helen Dean(Bailey) and Clifton C. Sykes, and his son, Terrell Sykes. Clifton was the beloved husband to Nicole Sykes; loving father to Aaron Sykes; loving brother to Alethea Gittings (Joel) of Brooklyn, NY, Lisa Morris (Frank) of Upper Marlboro, MD, and Derrick Sykes (Kiana) of Chesapeake, VA; loving uncle to Jennifer(Charles), Lauryn, Aliyah, Alissa, Alayna, Amari, Gregory(Tiff), Ryan and Nolan. He was also a loving Godfather to Sherry Kirk of Linden, NJ; best friend to Charles Kirk (Bridget) of Linden, NJ and dear friend Wandia Poole of Roselle, NJ.