Albert M. Theodore, III
August 7, 1949 ~ December 9, 2015
Albert Myers Theodore, III was the eldest of four children born on August 7, 1949 to the late Albert M. Theodore, Jr. and Netterine Walker Theodore. He graduated from North Gulfport High School in Gulfport, Mississippi and attended Alcorn State University, earning a degree in Biology. Following college he relocated to San Antonio, Texas. Al was united with Joe Ann Hayes in holy matrimony on June 9, 1973. On July 11, 1979 they gave birth to their son, Ronald Theodore, of whom he was proud.
Albert loved the Lord, his family, his church, and his community. He gave his life to Christ and later served as a deacon at Saint Phillip Baptist Church where he enjoyed attending Sunday school. Al worked many years at Fairchild and McFarlin Tennis Centers as a director of tennis devoting much time to teaching and coaching tennis as well as mentoring young people. He was proud to witness those dear to his heart take what he shared with them and use it to grow, advance, and support themselves. He later worked with the City of San Antonio at local parks and recreation facilities. Al's passion for tennis was evident in the way he dedicated time training his son Ronald at a very young age to also develop this same love for tennis. In his leisure time he enjoyed golfing with close friends, spending time with his two grandkids and valued quality time with his wife. Al was known as a source of encouragement for both young and old. He contributed to many people and their families and will be remembered for being kind, yielding and self-sacrificing.
Al leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife, Joe Ann Theodore of 42 years; one son, Ronald (Brandis) Theodore; two grandchildren, Sidney and Caleb Theodore; three siblings, Wanda (Willie) Ruffin, Sheryl (Carl) Alexander, and Daryl (Joyce) Theodore, many "sons and daughters" who held a special place in his heart as well as a host of family and friends.
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Al tennis skills help my daughter Erica become a super champ and that enabled my daughter to receive a 60 thousand dollar scholarship to attend and play for Saint Mary University . Al I will always be grateful for your help and support . I will miss you and I look forward to seeing you again in Heaven . Thank you for your help and may your family be blessed . Robert Carmona .
Al was an incredible soul. He was so good to our family. Al walked the talk – led by example, good sportsmanship ahead of winning. He was incredibly proud of Ron and grandkids. And we often stood at the desk when he was stringing and he would have that smile when we asked how his wife was doing. I am so sorry for your family’s loss. There is no doubt some serious tennis going on in Heaven!
Much love and sadness Barb and Dave McMindes
My heart breaks as I learn about this news. Al did so much for the game of tennis in San Antonio. Always had a smile and a kind word. Loved that man.
My heart breaks for his family. I am so sorry for your loss. He will be missed by a lot of people. :(
What an honor it was to know you and learn from you. You will be greatly missed by many, thank you for taking an interest in the well being of everyone you came in contact with.
It still hurts knowing the legendary Al Theodore passed away. He was a huge part of my tennis career and truly a second father for me. He was a great husband, father, and person to everyone he encountered. The tennis community lost a great one and he impacted so many. Al Theodore was San Antonio tennis. I will miss spending time with him, learning life lessons, and hearing his voice but I know he is in a better place. Rest in peace coach.
Albert Theodore was a former classmate. His sister Wanda and I were in the same class. Albert a year ahead of us. I can remember Albert from school days playing in the band at North Gulfport High School. He was always a soft spoken and cordial person. My heart goes out to his family. Jesus said….. Let not your heart be troubled : ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions : if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And whither I go yet know, and the way ye know. John 14:1-4
Imogene King-Dugan
Al, you were a wise and selfless man. Who never turned a deaf ear to any silly question or problem we had. Your kind words and generous nature inspired us to always trust in God. Our hearts and our children’s hearts break realizing we must now say goodbye to you. You will be greatly missed but never forgotten. We love you Mr. Al. God bless you and your family.
Bonilla Family
Lindsey Robinson
Psalms 94:19 When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul.
Please know that the family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Mt. Pleasant UMC-Gulfport and Pastor Lindsey Robinson
You are my family and all are in my prayers!
Valerie Jones-Lane
“Al” Theodore; I have remarkable thoughts, and memories of you and your loving wife, Joe Ann. You and Joe Ann were always there for my son, (your nephew) Michael, with open arms, hearts, and sharing your unconditional love for him when he needed it the most. Just doing what families do. You will always be in our hearts, thoughts and prayers for being the wonderful man you are, and a great husband to Joe Ann. We love You, and we will miss you…..
Mary Hayes-Miller,
and Family
Joe Ann and Ron,
My heart is heavy with the loss of Al but my memories of Al put a smile on my face. He was a delight to work with in our world of tennis and a great teacher and mentor to Erin and Cameron. Bryan, Cameron, Erin and I send our love and prayers. Sarah Mayo and Family
To the Family of the late Albert M. Theodore III. You have our deepest condolences on behalf of the Spann family. We are praying for your strength as God take you through this period of bereavement.