Alfred Herman Link

Alfred Herman “Al” Link, 87, passed away Wednesday, May 24, 2017, at St. Vincent Medical Center in Jacksonville, Florida. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Elizabeth “Betty” Link. Al and Betty were active members of the St. Simons Island community since 1983.

Al was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on February 12, 1930, to German immigrants Alfred William Link and Hilda Keller Link. He was an alumnus and ardent supporter of Drexel University, where he had earned a degree in industrial engineering. In 1990, he retired as Senior Vice President of Operations from Merck and Company, Inc.

Throughout his life, Al was deeply committed to his Catholic faith. In addition to daily living his faith, he served in significant ways, including teaching CCD, ushering, and financially supporting a number of capital campaigns.

Al also had a passion for education. He formed a family foundation to support education for underprivileged students, and he was a lifelong contributor to Drexel University. Locally, he was an active supporter of the Coastal Georgia Historical Society and the Golden Isles Youth Orchestra.

Al had an enthusiasm for life that included family, cooking, tennis, golf, and travel. He and Betty visited six continents and countless countries, making lifelong friends and retaining vivid memories of every trip. He loved cooking for family gatherings and played tennis and golf well into his 80s. He knew the birthdate of each of his grandchildren and never missed a high school or college graduation.

Al is survived by his six children, Stephen (Julie), Gary (Linda), Bruce (Luanne), Gregory, Daria (Joe), and Rebecca; thirteen grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and five grand-dogs.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 on Wednesday, May 31, at St. William Catholic Church, 2300 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island. After the service, friends are invited to greet the family during a reception at the King and Prince Hotel, 201 Arnold Road, St. Simons Island.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Coastal Georgia Historical Society, 610 Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island, GA (912-638-4666) or to the Golden Isles Youth Orchestra, Post Office Box 603, Brunswick, GA 31521 (912-634-3453).

Arrangements are entrusted to Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home of Brunswick.