Alvin Samples, Jr.

Funeral Services for Mr. Alvin Samples, age 77 of Gardendale, will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home with Bro. Andy Rickles officiating. Burial will follow in the adjoining gardens.

Alvin passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at his home, surrounded by his family. Alvin met Carol Ann in 1964, and they both attended Tarrant High School. In 1966, he graduated from Tarrant High School. Alvin then attended The University of Alabama and played for The Crimson Tide under the coaching of Paul Bryant. At the end of his Alabama career, Alvin was voted a permanent team captain, a two-time All-SEC player, two-time All-Southern player, and one of Alabama’s 115 1st team All-Americans. He also holds the distinction of being one of only two players in Alabama history to be voted to the Alabama All-Decade team on both sides of the football. In addition to awards associated with his football career, Alvin was a member of the various honor societies. On January 21, 1970, Alvin and Carol Ann were married. Alvin continued his affiliation with The University as a student assistant coach, earning a BS Degree in Metallurgical Engineering in May 1970. Alvin and Carol Ann welcomed a son in 1971, Craig, and a daughter in 1974, Ashley. Alvin returned to his hometown of Tarrant and served in many capacities. He was on the Tarrant Board of Education for 12 years, and was a faithful member of Tarrant Rock Methodist Church. Alvin also continued to maintain relationships with The University of Alabama through the A-Club and Red Elephant Club. Alvin worked for Stockham Valves and Fittings (26 years), M&H Valves, and US Pipe, and was a member of the American Foundry Society. He also consulted with various foundries across the state. At the time of passing, Alvin was fully retired and enjoyed various activities with his family. He loved the outdoors and planting tomatoes. He could often be found helping one of his grandchildren, watching the Tide Roll, or on a riding lawn mower. Alvin was a devoted husband to Carol Ann for one-day-shy of 56 years. The family finds a great deal of comfort knowing Alvin is with his Savior and Lord for all of eternity. His body is fully healed and perfect. Heaven is so much sweeter knowing we will see him again one day.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Carol Ann Samples, his son, Craig Samples (Krista), his daughter, Ashley King (Jerry), his grandchildren, Hunter Samples, Tripp King and Chaney King, his siblings, Ray Samples (Jackie), Peggy Galbaugh, and Harold Samples (Linda), and a host of nieces, nephews, extended friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin Samples, Sr. and Peggy Samples, his sisters, Bonnie Murray, Joanne Smith and Virginia Murray, and his brothers, Charles Sides and Ronald Samples.

Active Pallbearers will be Craig Samples, Hunter Samples, Jerry King, Tripp King, Todd Jones and Nathan Bridges.

Alvin’s Brothers, Brother-in-Law, Lifelong Friends and Former Teammates from Tarrant High School and The University of Alabama will serve as Honorary Pallbearers.

The family is deeply grateful to the UAB St. Vincent’s East fifth-floor doctors and health care team for the exceptional care and kindness they provided Alvin. We especially want to thank his oncologist, Dr. Lakhanpal, for the many years of compassion and excellent medical guidance he gave to Alvin. Also, to the entire Southeast Hospice team for the compassionate care they provided. Their kindness and professionalism ensured he was comfortable and gave our family much-needed peace during his final days. Thank you for the extraordinary support you showed us all.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Tarrant Rock Methodist Church or The Big Oak Ranch.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026 from 12:00 P.M. until service time at 2:00 P.M. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home.