Alvin Leon Matthews

Alvin Leon Matthews, 77, of Austin, Texas, passed away on March 8, 2025. Born on November 7, 1947, to Ardell Matthews and Bernice Elizabeth Crenshaw, Al was a lifelong resident of Austin who accepted Christ at an early age.

A standout athlete at Stephen F. Austin High School, Al earned a football scholarship to Texas A&I University in Kingsville, where he graduated in 1970 with a degree in Secondary Education. He achieved numerous accolades, including All-America honors and a place on the Lone Star Conference All-Decade Team, before being drafted in the 2nd round by the Green Bay Packers. He played for the Packers and briefly for the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers. Al also served in the National Guard from 1970 to 1976.

In 1972, Al became the first African American football coach at the University of Texas. He later taught and coached at his high school alma mater before pursuing careers in real estate, construction, and automotive sales, earning numerous professional awards. Al was deeply committed to philanthropy, raising over $1.7 million through his National Association of Professional Athletes Celebrity Golf Classic. He served on several local charity boards, earning many honors for his dedication and community service.

Al is preceded in death by his father Ardell Matthews, stepfather Edgar Williams, sister Barbara Edmonson, and several extended family members. He is survived by his mother, Bernice Elizabeth Crenshaw Williams; son, Marcus Matthews (Kama); daughter, Kia Matthews; the mother of his children, DeMille Matthews; brothers, Richard Crenshaw (Diane) and Marvin Crenshaw; and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

A special thank-you to Hospice Austin's Christopher House for their compassionate care.

Arrangements are entrusted to King-Tears Mortuary.