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Alvin Clinkscales Obituary
Alvin T. Clinkscales, age 81, of Trumbull, died peacefully on Tuesday, November 5, 2013. He was a devoted husband of 53 years to wife Margaret ("Peggy"), father to Keith (Gia), Norma and Erik, and grandfather to Robel. Born in Bridgeport, CT to Alice Clinkscales and raised by his adoptive parents, William and Mary S. Parsons along with his "uncle" and "aunt" Joseph and Lucille Watkins. A lifelong resident of Connecticut, he attended Central High School and went on to become an All-Star athlete at the University of Bridgeport. Although drafted by the New York Knickerbockers of the NBA, he accepted an offer with the Harlem Globetrotters and played for 2 years. In 1956, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and played basketball with the Fort Dix team. After his discharge, he moved on to pursue his career in teaching and became the basketball coach at Notre Dame High School of Bridgeport. During this time he also played basketball for the semi-pro team the Milford Chiefs. He continued his focus on education by obtaining a Masters Degree at Southern Connecticut University. An opportunity at Sacred Heart University presented itself and for the next 40 years he mentored and inspired youths to achieve their educational dreams. In addition to his immediate family, he is survived by a special sister-in-law, Norma J. Holmes, nephew, Russell, niece, Victoria, great nephew, Jordan and many special family and friends. He is predeceased by brothers Leo, Clarence and Charles. Calling hours will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, November 8, 2013 at the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Road, Trumbull, CT 06611. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, November 9, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. at the Chapel of the Holy Spirit at Sacred Heart University, 5151 Park Avenue, Fairfield. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alvin T. Clinkscales Scholarship Fund, c/o Sacred Heart University, 5151 Park Ave., Fairfield, CT 06825. www.sacredheart.edu/alvinclinkscales To light a virtual candle, visit us at www.abriola.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Alvin Clinkscales
Dana E Smith LFDE
November 1, 2020
I enjoyed the years of playing golf with Alvin. He wad a gentleman and a scholar. He always had that big smile
A.John Langston-Rashied
November 21, 2013
May the Grace and Mercy of the Almighty grant Brother Alvin a place in the Masters House of Peace Eternal,Salaam/Amin.
Tom Todd
November 21, 2013
I know we all have to make this journey one day, but in losing Al, we lose a very special man. His infectious smile and laugh will now resonate through Heaven. I have so many special memories of Al when he was at Sacred Heart, and I was at U.B. He will always be an inspiration to me. Condolences to his family, may he rest in peace and love.
Jena Schaefer
November 19, 2013
Peggy & family,
I'm thinking of you with hope that each passing day eases your pain. Some of my happiest, most treasured memories are from the years I worked with Alvin at SHU. He was such a joy to be around and oh how I loved hearing that wonderful, contagious laugh! Alvin had a way of making everyone feel proud of their accomplishments and offered encouragement for every challenge ahead. He was always kind, caring, respectful -- and a true, loyal friend. I will continue to honor my dear friend every April 5th when I look up to heaven and wish a very special angel "Happy Birthday."
Lisa (Romo) Roberto, SHU class of '77
November 14, 2013
May happy memories bring comfort and peace. I will treasure my memories of Mr. Clinkscales and remember him with only love and respect. My prayers and sympathy -
November 12, 2013
I send my deepest condolences to the Clinkscales family!
Barbara Tuck
Val Payne-Masse
November 10, 2013
To the family -
Sending light and love to you during this difficult time. Mr. Clinkscales was a wonderful, warm person and I will forever appreciate his graciousness. He was a welcome presence in the FA office during my time at SHU and made a point of connecting with me by telling me he knew my parents. RIP sir, as you once requested of me - please give my parents my best. Namaste and God bless
Marilyn, Jon, and Andre Badolato
November 10, 2013
Condolences to the Clinkscales family at the loss of your husband, father, and friend. May your memories of him and the love of family and friends keep you strong and bring you comfort at this difficult time.
Robert Medlock
November 10, 2013
Mr. C's influence on my life will be with me forever. He was the role model I sought as a young African-American male in a new environment. The manner in which he comported himself and the knowledge he transferred have shaped my life. I will miss him deeply, however, the memories will last a lifetime.
Well done Mr. C.......rest well
Jim Rivers
November 9, 2013
Alvin came into our family as a Star and will be leaving us as an even brighter star. He will be missed.
November 9, 2013
Played against Al in high school, college, & after. Not only was he a great basketball player, but also one of the nicest gentleman I knew and respected.
Ed Sipay
Diane Montelli Morrisey
November 9, 2013
May God rest your soul Mr. Clinkscales. Thank you for being the brother to my Father that he never had. You were loved and you will be missed.
Bob Keeley
November 9, 2013
Coach, you helped so many while at Notre Dame and Sacred Heart. We all benefitted from your caring ways. Rest in peace Coach.
Rosa Lee Rowe
November 9, 2013
I extend my condolences to the Clinkscales Family. May God's peace, that surpasses all understanding, be yours today and beyond!
Marguerite Duffy Gunn
November 8, 2013
Mr Clinkscales was coaching at Notre Dame HS when I attended and I had several friends that he coached. They always had praise for him as a coach and as a man. He made a big difference in the lives of many young people. So sorry the world has lost a wonderful man.
November 8, 2013
Alvin was a great man & always greeted me with a great smile & big hug every time I saw him on the SHU Campus. I will miss him greatly!
Jerry f Riordan
Joseph Wilcox
November 8, 2013
Mr. Clinkscales was instrumental in helping myself and many students get into Sacred Heart University! He truly cared about helping his Students! He will truly be missed! God bless the Clinkscale family in there great lost!
Lori Jones Gibbs
November 8, 2013
Thank you Mr. Clinckscales for making sure I received a scholarship and grants in aid, which enable me to attend college. You were always there for me and all the other students. May GOD welcome you into his heavenly kingdom.
Dori Skillings-Dean
November 8, 2013
Although it has been many years I remember Al being one of the nicest, kindest men I have ever known. My father was friends with him and I have the wonderful memory of seeing the Harlem Globetrotters with he and his family. My condolences to the family. God has a new angel to look over you.
Minnie Spear
November 8, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Denise Macarski
November 8, 2013
Mr. Clinkscales was a wonderful person. He was always helpful to me when I attended SHU. My prayers are with him & his family at this time.
GEORGE & REDELL BRYANT
November 8, 2013
TO THE FAMILY. MAY THE LORD GIVE YOU STRENGTH DURING THIS HOUR OF SORROW. ALVIN WAS A GENTLE SOUL WITH A CARING HEART. HE WAS A LIGHT TO THOSE WHO WERE LOOKING FOR A FRIEND. FUN LOVING, WITH A SMILE THAT COULD LIGHT UP A ROOM. HE WAS A LEGEND IN THE CITY OF BRIDGEPORT AND WILL BE MISSED. REST IN PEACE ALVIN YOUR LABOR IS DONE.
Judy Gilmore
November 8, 2013
A wonderful man and a wonderful inspiration. He coached my brother at ND in the early sixties. A real gentleman. Our deepest sympathy to all the family.
Judy Long Gilmore
michael mcgehee
November 8, 2013
To the clinkscales family my deepest sympathies. may god bless you I always admired the clinkscales family he was very important in my life.
Laurie Paladino
November 8, 2013
To the Clinkscale Family,
I met Alvin, when he attended UB. My Mom managed the old Alumni Hall cafeteria,and she loved all the students,especially the athletes. S he would take me to all the basketball games, which I thought, was just great.Alvin. was my Hero, he was always so nice to me, and made me feel so important, because, he was my friend.What 10 year old wouldn't havefelt special? Please know, my Mom is up in heaven cooking, so know Alvin, will not be hungry..
My Sincere Condolences,
Laurie Martin Paladino
Linda Dreher
November 7, 2013
Alvin was a very special person in my SHU life. Kind and gentle always willing to listen. Someone who could make so many smile. Being in his company was always a pleasure. I will always feel blessed and a better person for having had Alvin in my life. May the many wonderful memories of your husband and father give you Great comfort at this and for the years to come. Peggy I thank you and your family for all the years you shared him with all of us.
Jens Mandanici
November 7, 2013
My deep sypathy to the family, my dad played on the New England championship team with Al.
Jens Kris Mandanici
Tom Wilson
November 7, 2013
Always admired him when I attended Notre Dame in the sixties. May Al Rest In Peace.
DORIS & EDDIE GEE
November 7, 2013
TO THE CLINKSALES FAMILY WE EXPRESS OUR
SORROW WHEN YOU TALKED TO AL YOU LEFT
THERE WITH A SMILE.A GREAT MAN GOD BLESS YOU ALL
Terri DeRiso
November 7, 2013
Dear Peggy,
My deepest sympathies to you and you and your family.
Ginger Horvath-Stehle
November 7, 2013
Peggy and family, Sincerest condolences to you all. I will always remember his warmth, his kindness and that great big smile..
November 7, 2013
Peggy, my thoughts and prayers are with you & your family, I remember Alvin stopping into your 1st or 2nd grade class and meeting him at John Winthrop School....God Bless....
from your old student Mickey Kosinski
November 7, 2013
Alvin was my teacher 52 years ago at Notre Dame and was an excellent teacher, coach, and friend to so many of those whose lives he touched. I am priviledged to say he was my friend and role model and I will miss him but I have nothing but great memories of him. Peggy and his family are in my thoughts and prayers and may he rest in peace.
November 7, 2013
To The Entire Clinkscales family, my deepest sympathy on the loss of a truely great man who touched so many lives. I had the priviledge of being a memeber of one of his teams at Notre Dame, as well as a student in one of his classes. While it has been over 45 years since I have seen him, I will always remember his witt, kindness, and stories about life. May you rest in peace "Coach".
Rich Marusa Shelton
Carolyn Vermont
November 7, 2013
So saddened to hear of the transition of Mr. Clinkscales. He always had such a warm spirit & infectious smile. I will always remember his willingness to carve out time to listen. May his soul rest in peace.
November 7, 2013
My deepest sympathy to all the Clinkscales family. Prayers to all of you. He was a kind, generous soul who will leave all of us with wonderful memories of him touching our lives. Rest in Peace
Heather Dale Carolan
Milford, CT
Gwendolyn Armstrong
November 7, 2013
Dear Peggy, May God's grace, love and peace be with you and the family during this time of grievance.Know that Alvin's impact of those whom he taught and worked with will always be remembered. Blessings on you all.
Jim Moran
November 7, 2013
My sincere condolences to the Clinkscale family.
Al and I went through the old Read school elementary. He was a great guy then
Peter Harmen Burke
November 7, 2013
RIP Alvin Clinkscales ,. God Bless the Clinkscales family in their time of sorrow ,. I had Mr. Clinkscales as a teacher at Notre Dame ,.,.
November 7, 2013
Sorry to hear about the passing of Alvin. We go way back to our childhood days, YMCA, Middle Street Boys Club and high school. I knew Clarence and Charlie well also. Al will be miss. He was a straight up guy. My blessing to the family.
LOU BALDWIN, RIALTO.CALIF.
Reg Marinaccio
November 7, 2013
Peggy and family; Al was a very special man and he touched so many of us in many ways. He taught me patience on the basketball court and tried to teach me typing in class. His mantra of "Defense gentlemen Defense" still rings in my ears today.
Janet Haffner
November 7, 2013
When I joined the Notre Dame faculty in 1957, part of my duties was to walk over to the boy's side to deliver various materials.The best part of my "trips" was to bump into Al who,more often than not,had a basketball in hand and from the top floor would warn me,"Look out below!"and then drop the ball!Then came the great laugh and,"Oops,missed again." It has been a privelege to have known such a fun,kind,giving man.God bless your family.Rest in peace,dear Al.
Eric, Adam, Jeff, Lynn Miller
November 7, 2013
My condolences to Peggy and family. Mrs. Clinkscales was my teacher at Nathan Hale, and it was always a thrill when Mr. Clinkscales came to visit! To us, he was a celebrity, and he was always so gracious. Peggy - all the 'Miller kids' send their best wishes!
November 7, 2013
My condolences to the Clinkscales Family. I remember Mr. Clinkscales as my financial adviser, but we would sit as discuss a whole lot more. A very nice man...a shining star on earth.
Lou & Patti Brodersen
November 7, 2013
Peggy: We are so sorry for your loss. We have many great memories.
Bill Kochis
November 7, 2013
I had the privilege of being one of his students at Notre Dame in the 60's. He was a kind and sincere gentleman. My condolence to his family .
November 7, 2013
TO THE CLINKSCALES FAMILY
YOUR HUSBAND AND DAD WILL BE A LEGEND IN MANY OF OUR LIVES. MAY ALL WONDERFUL MEMORIES SUSTAIN YOU IN THE LOSS OF A WONDERFUL HUMAN BEING.
FONDLY,
GERI SCARPETTI
November 7, 2013
My sympathy to the Clinkscales family. Alvin was a good friend and golfing partner. He will be sadly missed.
Dana E. Smith LFDE
Suzanne Burr Monaco
November 7, 2013
To the family-
I was at Notre Dame when he was there in the 60's. A wonderful man with a true sense of community, and a joy for coaching. He has a wonderful family, whom I got to know at Hillcrest. May he be at peace in the Lord. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Todd, Nancylee, Greg & Jay Linley
November 7, 2013
Dear Peggy and family, we are so sorry to hear "Coach" has passed away. He had such an influence on my life. You will be in my prayers.
Evelyn Pantoja
November 7, 2013
R.I.P. Mr. Clinkscales your in God's care now.
Kathy Zelle-Duke
November 7, 2013
Dear Peggy and Family,
It was such and honor and so much fun to know and work with Alvin. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Kathy Zelle-Duke
Michael Barrett
November 7, 2013
Always a kind word, always a good deed, always that infectious laugh . . . the world is so much less a place without Al Clinkscales in it. My heartfelt sympathy to all of you for the passing of a man who made a difference in so many lives.
November 6, 2013
Peggy, nothing but the fondest of memories from the "Coach"--you and your family will be in my prayers, with much love and many prayers, Fred & Pat Spadaccino
Michael Sharpe
November 6, 2013
I can remember when I first started working at Sacred Heart University when I was dispatch to unlock the Campus Center for mr alvin clinkclinkscales who left his key at home. we will see just laughing and joking around is when I really got to know him very well over the years I will sadly miss him god Bless.
Sandra byrne
November 6, 2013
dear peggy and family ,so sorry for your loss our prayers are with you all.love Sandra ,Tara and Gavin Byrne
Ken Basque
November 6, 2013
Sorry to hear of his passing.i am glad I got to see him at our 50 yr reunion in Sept. I will always remember playing for him,he was a great coach.
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