Alvis "Al" Hartsfield Sr.

"...well done, good and faithful servant..." St. Matthew 25:23.

He was born in Blytheville, Arkansas on February 16, 1926 to Mamie and Clayton Hartsfield. He entered the United States Navy at age 16 and while stationed in the Houston area, met his wife, Nell. After a very short courtship they were married and moved to St. Louis. They returned to Houston and in 1958 Al and Nell founded Kitchen Equipment Fabricating Company (KEFCO) where they both worked until their retirement. They traveled to every state in the United States as well as to many countries around the world. Al liked to fish and hunt and enjoyed displaying his "trophy" catches.

Al was a hard worker and a very caring and generous person. He helped students with expenses so they could further their education. He helped those in need when there was no other way. He loved his family and enjoyed being with them whenever possible. He was so proud of all of their accomplishments. He was a loyal member of Veterans of Underage Military Service (VUMS).

Al is survived by his wife of 66 years, Mary Winelle (Nell), daughters Linda Piserelle (Charles), Marilyn Barnes (Lynn) and son Lloyd (Patrice); six grandchildren, Paul Pruett (Jennifer), Amy Hernandez (Carlos), Hannah and Sam Barnes and Samantha and Kate Hartsfield; three great grandchildren, Evan and Chloe Pruett and Sophia Hernandez. Also surviving are his brother, Alton (Gladys), Calvin (Norma), George (Paula) and sister Mary Timmer (Dave), JoAnn McCurter (Bo) and Betty Stegall (Gene). His parents and brother, Bobby predeceased him.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 11:30 to 12:30 , Thursday, January 26, 2012 with Funeral Services to follow at 12:30 at Forest Park East Chapel. Honorary casket bearers are Gilbert Alhardt, Leon Jeffcoat, Jerry Johnson, John Tucker, Bruce Weaver and David Wright.

In lieu of customary remembrances, contributions in Al's name may be directed to The American Cancer Society. Please call 800-227-2345.