

He was born April 14, 1940 in Scranton, Pennsylvania to the late Alvin and Thelma MacWilliams. Al spent his early childhood in Washington, D.C. before moving to Mt. Pocono at the age of 12. Known as "Red" to his childhood friends, he attended Stroud Union High School and graduated from East Stroudsburg State College with his degree in history. He also received his Master’s degree from Lehigh University.
While bartending in the Poconos, Al met the love of his life, Phyllis. They married in 1964 and settled in Maryland where they both pursued careers in education. A dedicated history teacher, Al spent the majority of his career with Baltimore County Public Schools.
Al and Phyllis spent decades in the Pines on the Severn community of Arnold, where they raised their three children. Al loved spending time on the Severn River, creating cherished memories boating with his family. What began as adventures with his own wife and children later became treasured days on the water with his children's families.
A lifelong Maryland sports fan, Al rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the Baltimore Orioles and the Baltimore Ravens. But his favorite sporting events were always those involving his own children, particularly wrestling, soccer, and lacrosse.
In retirement, Al enjoyed working at the Navy Golf Course, where his friendly personality and easygoing nature made him a favorite among co-workers and members alike. He had a gift for conversation, but his greatest gift was the kindness and genuine interest he showed everyone he met.
Throughout his life, Al touched countless lives - those of his students, friends, neighbors, co-workers, golf course members, and the many parents and families he met while cheering on his grandchildren. Al was his grandchildren's biggest fan, rarely missing a game, match, recital, or special event. He took great pride in celebrating their accomplishments and supporting them every step of the way. Al will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Al was preceded in death by Phyllis, his wife of 46 years. He is survived by his two sons, Mac (Brittany) of Louisville, KY and Phil (Jigisha) of Chevy Chase, MD; daughter Susan (Ryan) of Arnold, MD; one brother, Wayne (Ruth) of Delaware Water Gap, PA; and eight grandchildren, Ellie, Laney, and Benny MacWilliams, Nick and Maya MacWilliams, and Jack, Aidan, and Kate Hamilton.
Visitation will be held at John M. Taylor Funeral Home, 147 Duke of Gloucester St., Annapolis, MD 21401, on Thursday, August 6th from 6:00-8:00 PM and Friday, August 7th from 10:00-11:00 AM. A funeral service will be held in the chapel at John M. Taylor Funeral Home on Friday, August 7th at 11:00 AM. A luncheon will follow.
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