When you have lived a full life, is it really possible to summarize it within the brevity of a traditional obituary? For Albert Craig Wilson, affectionately known as “Big Al”, born December 8, 1955 in Houston, TX to the late James Charles Wilson and Bobbie Mae Richard Wilson, the short answer is no. Before Albert entered eternal rest Wednesday, April 1, 2020 at home comforted by his wife of 42 years, he did his best to positively impact every person he came in contact with. To truly honor Albert, we would need to write a biography with contributions from all his family, friends and associates. In lieu of a biography, we will instead offer some illustrations of the Big Al we knew.
In order to advance professionally, it is often recommended that you tend to your “sphere of influence”. Sphere of influence is defined as people in your personal and professional network with whom your opinion holds some weight. The strength of Albert’s sphere of influence was rooted in his innate leadership, affability, passion and human vulnerability.
Albert got an early start working on his leadership skills. Due to in-home instability, he assumed head of household responsibilities as an adolescent helping his mother financially and holding his four younger siblings accountable. As a young adult growing up in Fourth Ward, Albert’s friendliness enabled him to accomplish two things: (1) make numerous lifelong friends and (2) curry favor with Jacqueline Wilson whom he married May 30, 1978. This union birthed two sons, and with the responsibility of a young family, he combined passion and purpose. Albert was passionate about realizing his professional potential, and his purpose as husband and father was to provide and guide. His initial vehicle for completing this assignment was the Harris County Sheriff’s Department, where he worked as a deputy for 30+ years. During his Harris County tenure, Albert was introduced to A.L. Williams in the late 1980’s, which eventually became Primerica. He joined Primerica as a representative and eventually ascended to the perch of Senior Vice President driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and an infectious desire to help others achieve financial independence. As things slowed down and priorities began to shift, Albert began dedicating more and more time to things that were everlasting. He was a 15-year member of the board of trustees for the Miles Ministry, often partnering with the Star of Hope Mission to help stabilize disadvantaged women and children. After retiring from the sheriff’s department, he also became active in the Men of Purpose Ministry at Cross Roads Community Church of Pearland, TX leading Bible study, Sunday school and coordinating youth outreach. Lastly, Albert was involved in Harris County Afro-American Sheriff's Deputy League (board member & Treasurer), Richard Family Organization (President & Vice President), Pine Flat Reunion (program advisory). There was some overlap between Albert’s personal and professional networks but not much. The thing that is most striking is that as he grew, none of his networks were ever abandoned. It is often said that “you can’t be everything to everybody”. It certainly seems like Albert tried and succeeded. Being human and knowing his place in the spiritual hierarchy made him relatable, genuine and ultimately successful in work and life. May we all endeavor for a similar sized sphere of influence.
Those left to cherish Albert’s memories include the following: his loving and devoted wife of 42 years, Jacqueline Wilson of Houston, TX; Two sons James K. Wilson (Bronis) of Round Rock, TX, Charles J.D. Wilson (Angela) of Cypress, TX; Three brothers Clyde Wilson (Carol) of Houston, TX, Ronald Wilson of Houston, TX, Donald Wilson (Connie) of Houston, TX; Two sisters Cynthia Wilson of Houston, TX, Jamie Comeaux of New Orleans, LA; Four goddaughters Bronwyn O’Neal of Houston, TX, Brianna Dawson (Marsalis) of Humble, TX, Jennifer Calhoun (Derrick) of Houston, TX, Danielle Sampy (Coty) of Breaux Bridge, LA; eight grandchildren, along with great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and other friends and relatives.
In lieu of sending flowers: the family is asking that guests make a donation to Miles Ministry in Albert C. Wilson’s name. Their website follows: https://www.milesministry.org.
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