Albert "Bear" Alexander John

Albert "Bear" Alexander John, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2023, in Ozark, Alabama. Born on November 6, 1956, in Brooklyn, New York, Bear was a courageous, passionate, and analytical man who faced life with an unwavering determination.

Bear is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Andrea (Levi) Crittendon and Shaniece (Joseph) Carmichael; his grandchildren, Aniyah Kitt, Layla Straw, Alexander Arias, and Aria Carmichael; his brothers, Winston Hinds and Raymond John; and a host of nieces and nephews, including Dianne Butts. He is survived by his first wife, Gloria John. He was preceded in death by his beloved second wife, Marsha John.

Bear proudly served his country as a member of the US Army Special Forces with the Green Berets. His military service included deployments to Desert Storm and Korea, where he demonstrated his unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers and the nation he loved. A true patriot, Bear cared deeply about our veterans and worked tirelessly to ensure their well-being.

Although a very private individual, Bear was known to be a "say what you mean and mean what you say" kind of guy. He was also superstitious and believed that some things were best left to fate. As the Greek philosopher Heraclitus once said, "Character is destiny," and Bear's character was certainly one of his defining features.

Family was the cornerstone of Bear's life, and he cherished every moment spent with his loved ones, especially his grandchildren. A skilled cook, Bear often prepared elaborate meals for his family, with his famous oxtail soup being a particular favorite. He also enjoyed cooking West Indian food, seafood, and lobster, always eager to share his culinary talents with those closest to him.

Bear was an avid reader who loved to learn, and his thirst for knowledge was insatiable. He believed that education was the key to unlocking one's potential and encouraged his children and grandchildren to pursue their passions with the same fervor he applied to his own pursuits.

A man of many interests, Bear enjoyed playing chess and engaging in complex puzzles like Go/Othello Game. These activities not only provided him with a mental challenge but also served as a metaphor for life, as each move represented a decision with consequences that rippled through time.

Bear's quiet demeanor belied a fierce protector of his family, and his courage was evident in both his military service and his unwavering support for those he loved. He was a man who led by example, demonstrating the importance of honesty, integrity, and determination in every aspect of his life.

As we mourn the loss of Albert "Bear" Alexander John, we are reminded of the words of the great poet Maya Angelou: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Bear's legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness, his wisdom, and his unwavering love.

Robert and Toni Byrd · Sunset Memorial Park

1700 Barrington Rd, Midland City AL · (334) 983-6604