Albert Gilchrist Hyde Jr.

Albert Gilchrist Hyde, Jr., age 81, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026. Born October 7, 1944, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Al lived a full and adventurous life marked by devotion to family, service to his country, and a deep love for music and the sea.

Al was the son of Albert “Pud” Gilchrist Hyde, Sr. and Inez McElroy Hyde, both of whom preceded him in death. He earned his MBA from the University of Southwestern Louisiana and went on to live a life few could rival in variety and richness of experience. A Navy veteran, Al was a notable New Orleans drummer, tour manager, music producer, able-bodied seaman, and horseman. True to his independent spirit, he once said—and lived out—that he “did everything he ever really wanted to do.”

Above all his accomplishments, Al was most proud of being a father. He was sacrificially devoted to his only daughter, ensuring she was always cared for and supported. He often said that his greatest accomplishment in life was raising Shellie, a statement that perfectly captured his heart and priorities.

Al is survived by his daughter, Shellie Hyde Hooper, and her husband Scott Hooper, of Stephenville; his grandchildren Mary Kaitlin Rogers and her husband Cody of San Antonio, Christopher Hooper and his wife Morgan of Nashville, Tennessee, and Caleb Hooper and his wife Jasmyn of Amarillo; and his great-grandchildren Beau Rogers of San Antonio and Jameson Hooper of Amarillo. He is also survived by his brother Aurthur Hyde of Lafayette, Louisiana, as well as nieces and nephew Jenny Hyde May, Jessica Hyde Meydrich, and Artie Hyde.

Al will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his steady devotion to family, and his contentment with a life fully lived. Those who knew him knew a man who followed his own path and loved deeply along the way.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, February 7, at 10:00 a.m. at Cottonwood Church in Dublin, Texas, with interment to follow at Cottonwood Cemetery.