Albert L. Rawls, Jr.

Albert L. Rawls, Jr. (Al) was born March 14, 1949, to Esther Norris Rawls and Albert L. Rawls, Sr., in Semmes, AL. He had many accomplishments throughout his life, but none more important to him than his family. From being in the Million Dollar Band (Roll Tide!) while earning his numerous degrees for music, to going back to school in his 40’s to become a Counselor, he touched many lives along the way. Music allowed him to travel many places and touch so many with his God-given gifts—vocalist, pianist and organist. Teaching allowed him to help so many young lives that otherwise may not have had someone to look up to. He listened to them and created a space that they were loved. He lived life to the fullest. He loved traveling and meeting new people (never met a stranger). He was a teacher, mentor, Music Director, Evangelist, adventurer, but to those he loved, he was Daddy, Papa or Al. Al transitioned from this life to his Heavenly home on August 29th, 2020, at his home Gulfport, with his family by his side. He was preceded in death by his mother Esther Norris Rawls and his father Albert L. Rawls, Sr. He is survived by his daughter Elaine Rawls Ladner (Danny), granddaughter Megan Ladner and grandson Anson Ladner, all of Gulfport, MS.; his sisters Annette Dixon (Jim) and Marilyn Turner; niece Anita Waters (Terry) and nephew Joe Alford (Wendy), along with numerous great nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved so much. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 15, at 3:00 pm. It will be at the home of his niece, Anita Waters, in an adjacent center. The address is: 23965 Fountain St., Robertsdale, AL. Fairhope Community Church has established a scholarship fund at the University of Mobile in memory of Al. Contributions can be made to Fairhope Community Church, 329 S. Greeno Rd., Fairhope, AL and designated for Al. There’s no better way to honor Al than to help students further their music education, as this was his passion