Alonzo Salley Jr.

Alonzo "Sonny" Salley Jr., lovingly known also as "Lonnie," was born on June 14, 1942, in Canadys, South Carolina, to the late Alonzo Salley Sr. and Thomasina Gaddis Salley. In 1947, he moved with his mother and brothers, Douglas and McCalvin, to Brooklyn, New York. Even from a young age, his gifts were evident. Excelling in school, he skipped the fourth grade, and by 17 had graduated from Boys High School in Brooklyn, NY with distinction. Shortly thereafter, he answered the call to serve by enlisting in the United States Air Force.
During his years in the military, Alonzo became well known for both his athletic and musical talents. On the basketball court, he earned the nickname "Leaping Lonnie" for his speed and ability. Off the court, he lent his voice to a quartet, sharing his love for music with fellow servicemen. After receiving an honorable discharge in 1966, Alonzo returned to Brooklyn, where he pursued higher education at Baruch College and proudly earned a Bachelor of Science degree.
Alonzo dedicated his professional life to the banking industry, where he built a respected reputation for excellence and integrity. He retired in 2003 as a Bank Auditor with the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York. In 1975, he and his family relocated to Bucks County, Pennsylvania, where Alonzo's life became a blend of career, community, and faith. A man deeply rooted in service; Alonzo became a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Langhorne in 2008. He served faithfully on the Trustee Board and sang joyfully in the Men's Choir. His commitment to preserving culture and history was evident as a founding member and Treasurer of the African American Museum of Bucks County, where his leadership left an enduring mark.
Above all, Alonzo's greatest joy was his family. For 60 years, he shared a life of love and partnership with his devoted wife, Linda Salley. Together, they raised four beloved children; Martin (DaVonne) of New Jersey, Marc (Natalie) of Florida, Necole of North Carolina, and Noelle of Pennsylvania. He was a proud grandfather to Marketa, Martin II, ZaAsia, Aliyah, Myiesha, Destiny, Kaija, Marques, and Niyah, and a delighted great-grandfather to six. The eldest of six siblings, Alonzo was preceded in death by his brothers, Douglas and McCalvin, and his sister Cathy Blaize. To cherish his memory, he leaves his brothers Neal Salley (Shirell) and Brian Salley (Alvena), his sister-in-law Sherri Jenkins, his brother-in-law Ronnie Jenkins, his best friend Reggie Green, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.
Alonzo's passions were many, but music and basketball remained central throughout his life. His extensive collection of blues, jazz, gospel, R&B, and especially doo-wop spoke to the rhythm of his soul. His warm smile, sharp mind, deep faith, and boundless love for family will be remembered always.
Alonzo "Sonny" Salley Jr. lived a life of service, achievement, and devotion. His legacy will forever live on in the lives of those who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the African American Museum of Bucks County at www.aamuseumbucks.org.