Al "Alvin" Stewart

I still think of him, each time I pick up my trumpet to play. I will never forget my time I spent with him in the Suncoast Jazz Ambassadors, my time I spent with him at his home, and his perseverance he displayed at performances, when he was ill. A true mentor and hero, in my book.

Tandy...you won't remember me...we met at Fox Hills Adult Community when your friends Sam and Joyce Zitman brought Al to my condo on the same floor because they knew of my love for American jazz..
Al brought his incredible photo book with him. I won't forget that afternoon. I peppered Al with all kinds of questions over a couple of gin and tonics.
I'm looking at the great photo of Dizzy's Big Band at Birdland 1956 and there's Al.with Lee Morgan, Wynton Kelly, Phil Woods, etc,...

Our beloved friend and neighbor, Al will continue to be in our hearts. His charms, talents as a musician and gifted artist made him a gem in our midst. Our genuine and sincere condolences to Tandy and his family.

My love and affection for dear Al has always run deep -- some of my most cherished childhood memories include Al and Dad just hanging around our kitchen, talking shop and laughing about all the crazy adventures they had on the buses and pits that they so brilliantly graced with their talents throughout the years. What a great and beautiful friendship they maintained! I always was glad to be the one to answer the phone when Al called Dad. "Hey...Chris! Al! How ya doing?" His humor and goodwill...

We offer our heartfelt condolences to Tandy. Leonard & Lydia and Amy. May the beautiful memories comfort your hearts at this difficult time.
I will miss hearing Al play his trumpet when I would be out in our yard!

Blessings to the entire family,
Irene & Jerry

I am very sorry for your loss. My Dad (Irwin Russo) worked with Al in a variety of places and they would speak periodically and reminisce about a Broadway show called Whoop-Up that they did together. My father always enjoyed the conversations and would tell me what a fine trumpet player Al was. I had the pleasure of meeting Al one night at a concert in Emerson NJ and also used to see him with some other trumpet players at the diner in Park Ridge NJ. He was a wonderful musician and a fine...

You inspired me with your playing. You educated me when we talked. I was honored to walk with you and help you to your car after Jazz band rehearsals and performances. I will never forget our visit at your home. In the short time I have known you, it turned into a seemingly lifetime of memories. You have made me a better musician and human being. Your trumpet is silent but your legacy is with all who knew you. Good bye dear friend