Wilson "Tony" Albert

In Memoriam:

When the jazz of life finally simmers down to its last, lingering note, we often look back at the symphony played by those we've loved and lost. Wilson "Tony" Albert, Detroit's own in-house maestro, drummed his final paradiddle on March 4, 2024, at the ripe age of 87, leaving the stage of life from the same vibrant city that first heard his opening number.

Born to the beat of the industrial heart of America on August 9, 1936, Tony's life was a medley of rhythm and soul. His drumsticks were wands, conjuring beats that danced through the Motor City, from the stages with the Della Reese band and the Vandellas, to the sacred echoes within the walls of Grace New Covenant Church. Tony didn't just hit things with sticks; he told stories, he called forth joy, he crafted thunder and whispered heartbeats into existence.

Not one to march to the beat of anyone else's drum, Tony served his country with the unique flair of a Marine turned Military Police Officer. His military stints in Korea and San Diego were like a two-year drum solo that earned him medals and applause from Uncle Sam himself.

Tony's entrepreneurial spirit added a jazzy improvisation to his life's playlist. He cleaned up with Albert's Janitorial Service, polished off competition with Nature's Village Nail Salon and Spa, and served up scoops of joy from his ice cream truck-the cherry on top of a sundae of successful business ventures. Even in property management, he knew the key was to stay sharp and never fall flat.

The patriarchal piper who led his family in a dance of love and life, Tony is survived by a chorus line of children and grandchildren-each one carrying a tune of his lessons, his laughter, and his love. They march on, a band in their own right, playing the music he taught them with every step they take.

Beyond the footlights of the everyday, Tony found delight in the simple pleasures: cooking up a feast, cutting a rug with his dancing shoes, and capturing life's snapshots with a shutter and a click. He was a maestro of merriment, a commander of creativity, and a virtuoso of vivacity.

Peace Funeral Home of Detroit is orchestrating Tony's grand finale, ensuring his after-party is as harmonious as the life he conducted. As we bid adieu to Wilson "Tony" Albert, let's imagine him in that great jazz club in the sky, taking the celestial stage for an encore performance that will last for eternity. Keep tapping those cymbals, Tony, and give 'em a show that's out of this world!