Albert R. Fondren

On February 14, 1962, in the heart of Gary, Indiana, a precious gift was placed upon this earth—Albert Ray Fondren, born to Albert Lee Fondren and Lucille Taylor. A true Valentine's Day child, Albert carried with him a natural warmth, a generous laugh, and a quiet, steady strength that blessed every life he touched.
Albert received his education at Lew Wallace High School and later perfected his craft at Mr. Jay's Barber School of Gary, Indiana. His hands became known for their care, precision, and artistry as he served as an exceptional barber for many years. He also offered twenty years of dedicated service to the Westville Correctional Facility, where his professionalism and compassion made a lasting difference. Ever the entrepreneur, Albert and his wife built a successful and well-loved business together—Napri's Barber and Beauty Salon in downtown Gary, Indiana, their daughter Napri was their very polite and professional receptionist.
His career remained filled with excellence and integrity until significant health challenges arose in September 2008. He is an example of how to go through, with steadfast faith.
Albert's spiritual journey was rich, deep, and unwavering. He was a profound minister of the Gospel whose ministry touched countless souls. From childhood through adulthood, Albert was a member of Freeman Temple Church of God in Christ. He became a devoted member of Emmanuel COGIC, where he served faithfully until the passing of his pastor, Elder Askew Haynes—a loss that deeply affected him. Understanding the importance of spiritual covering for himself and his family, he then served wholeheartedly at Mission for Christ COGIC until God led them to Reed's Temple COGIC in Griffith, Indiana, where he remained a committed member until his passing. His faithfulness extended far beyond his local church; he was equally committed to his District, his Jurisdiction, and his National Church. The Holy Convocation of the Church of God in Christ held a special place in his heart, and he was blessed to attend for the final time in 2024. Through every season, Albert ministered with humility, love, and a heart fully committed to uplifting God's people.
His spirit was deeply fueled by Gospel music, especially the anointed voices of Reverends Timothy Wright and James Moore. Albert himself was a gifted choir director, drummer, and singer—ushering others into worship with joy, skill, and a presence that carried undeniable anointing.
Albert was also a devoted lover of knowledge. He spent countless hours reading, and history became more than an interest—it became part of his identity. Within his family, he was the trusted photographer and meticulous historian, always ready with a story, a fact, a memory, or a moment of wisdom. So many of the cherished memories held close today exist because he carried his camera faithfully on his shoulder, capturing life's beauty in both posed and unstaged moments.
Generosity flowed naturally from him; he provided for his family without hesitation and with a heart full of love. Albert possessed a rare and precious gift—the ability to bring laughter wherever he went his humor, kindness, and gentle spirit turned ordinary days into treasured memories. He was loved by many, and he will be missed deeply.
Albert leaves behind a circle of love strengthened forever by his memory: his devoted wife of 36 beautiful years, Priscilla Burton Fondren; his cherished daughter, Napri Leola Fondren; his sisters Dionne Fondren Maxwell of Indianapolis, IN, Joyce Warren (Keith) of Chicago, IL, Hortense Johnson, and Stella L. McKinnie (Clayton) of Atlanta, GA; his brothers,Thomas Fondren (Leslie) of Gary, IN, Elbert Fondren (Bianca) of Valparaiso, IN, Neal Taylor, and William Taylor (Felicia) of Indianapolis, IN; his godson, Daniel Goshay, and his goddaughters, Tiera Daniel and Khira Harris; two special nieces, Nicole Fondren and Daniele Jacobs; his "Bonus Mom," Marilyn Fondren of Gary, Indiana, and a host of nieces, nephews, brothers and sisters in love and friends.
He is preceded in glory by his parents, his brother, Oscar Taylor, and his Bonus Father, William Napoleon Taylor, Jr.
And now, with peace surrounding him... take your well-earned rest, Albert Ray. Your light will continue to shine in every heart you touched.
To honor his life of ministry and faith, we reflect on these words:
"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith."
2 Timothy 4:7
All Services Saturday November 29,2025 Wake 9:00a.m. Funeral 10:00a.m. at Reeds Temple C.O.G.I.C. 1300 Broad St. Griffith,In. Burial Oak Hill Cemetery Gary, In. Professional Services Rendered by Powell Coleman Funeral Home.