
Alfonso Futrell, better known by family & friends as “Big Al,” passed away Saturday at the age of 62 years old.
He was born in Altoona on October 23, 1958 and was well known for his strong faith & immense charisma. Those fortunate enough to have been greeted by the classic “Why you so bad?!” can speak endless stories about the legend that is Big Al Futrell.
Alfonso is survived by his brothers Elton & Kenneth Futrell and his children Nakishia Thomas, Adonis Downing, Lynnee Zajac, Nathanial Futrell, Tyler Futrell, Altrina Futrell & Terrence Futrell. He was preceded in death by both parents Ross & Narcissus Futrell, and his sister Vivian “Peachy” Jackson.
He was a member of the 1976 graduating class of Altoona Area High School where he was a stand-out athlete in football, basketball & track. Winner of the 1975 Joseph F Cohen Blanket Award, Al competed at the collegiate football level for Texas Christian University before going on to play defensive back in the National Football League.
Alfonso also boasted gifted attributes in singing, songwriting and poetry. He had the rare ability to play several musical instruments & took every opportunity to put on a show. His love for the spotlight paled in comparison to the joy he got from watching his children and grandchildren pursue their dreams.
Big Al Futrell will be remembered by those who knew him for his infectious personality that lit up the room, devout faith in Jesus Christ, and ability to make a stranger feel like a lifelong friend. He will be greatly missed.
Acknowledgement:
The Futrell family would like to acknowledge & extend their deep gratitude to everyone for the overwhelming support during this time of bereavement. A memorial service will be scheduled post-pandemic and a date will be disclosed in the near future. May God Bless You! Arrangements have been entrusted to Loutzenhiser-Jordan Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. 366-368 S. Main St. Greenville, PA.

Al was a great and funny childhood friend. He never backed down from competition and that’s why he was such a great athlete. Al played drums and was a very talented individual. We were neighbors in Altoona and attended the same schools. Prayers up for the Futrell family. Al will be dearly missed by every life that he touched. God knows best, so heaven get ready.
May god bless you and your family.i know you are in heaven with Peachy and Nanna.you are now a Angel.you will be very sadly miss by all of us here on earth.but one day we all will meet again.rest in peace now and prayers will be said for you every day.
I went to school with Alphonso. He sang in the chorus. I always thought he was so funny, and he was always happy. And he sang so well! I send my deepest sympathies to all of you. God has a beautiful soul to share in welcoming us all to heaven.❤