Alvin Lee Whittington

While some may have called him the Jolly Green Giant, those who knew Alvin Lee Whittington experienced the warmth and joy of a true gentle giant. Born on November 3, 1957, in Beaumont, Texas, Alvin was the sixth child of C.L. and Jerry Mae Whittington. His spiritual foundation was nurtured at Mount Gilead Baptist Church under the guidance of Reverend R.T. Anderson.

Known affectionately as "Gentle Giant," "Big Al," "Alvin Lee," "Uncle Alvin," or "Uncle Al," Alvin lived a life characterized by simplicity and genuine connection. He attended Martin Elementary and Lincoln Jr. High and graduated with the final class of Charlton Pollard High School in 1975. While at Charlton Pollard, Alvin was a true student-athlete and was instrumental in starting the school's first chess club. His older brothers encouraged his participation in sports, leading to his senior year basketball achievements being highlighted in the Beaumont Journal newspaper and other news outlets. A football scholarship to Texas Southern University followed, where he distinguished himself as an NAIA All-American athlete. After graduating from TSU, his athletic prowess led to an opportunity as a free agent with the Houston Oilers, playing alongside his brother, C.L.

Alvin's professional journey included successful careers in car sales and at Ozarka Water Company, where he cultivated lasting relationships with clients who appreciated his sincere care and empathy.

Generosity was a hallmark of Alvin's character. He delighted in giving gifts for holidays, birthdays, and spontaneous acts of kindness. "Uncle Alvin's house or Pop Alvin's house" was a haven of joy, filled with laughter, conversation, and thoughtful presents. Beyond his skilled gift-giving, Alvin was a true grill master, dedicating years to honing his craft and exchanging techniques with fellow pitmasters. His culinary expertise was a source of pride and delight at family gatherings. When not at the grill or surrounded by family, Alvin could often be found immersed in watching his favorite television shows and movies, especially his beloved "Star Trek."

Alvin was a devoted husband to his wife, Gerri Guidry-Whittington. He was more than just a husband – he was her best friend, rock, and greatest love. Alvin had a way of making her feel seen, valued, and deeply loved. Alvin didn't just say "I love you"—he showed her every single day. In the way he held her hand when he knew she needed comfort. In the way Alvin looked at her, she looked like she was the most precious thing in his world. In the way he put her happiness above his own, never failing to remind her, in both words and actions, how much she meant to him.

Alvin passed away on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at Methodist Hospital in Houston, Texas. He was preceded in death by his father, C.L. Whittington; his mother, Jerry Mae Whittington; his sister, Odessa Whittington Mayes; his brother, Jerry Lynn Whittington; and his nephew, Jason Jenkins.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Gerri Guidry-Whittington; his brother, and his wife, C.L. and Winnie Whittington; his sisters, Barbara and her husband, J.W. Daniels and Rose and her husband, Benjamin Durant; his mother-in-law, Georgia Kinnerson; his aunt, Katherine Whittington; his brother-in-law, McKinley Mayes; and his sister-in-law, Marilyn Whittington. Alvin's legacy also lives on through his cherished bonus children, LaToya Guidry, James Mayfield III, Christina Graggs, and Billy Pier Jr.; bonus grandchildren and great-grandchildren; cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews; and a host of friends.

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