Born Into Life: December 12, 1951 | Born Into Eternity: February 6, 2025
Fairfield Baptist Church
6133 Redan Road, Lithonia, Georgia
Rev. Dr. Eric Vickers, SeniorPastor
Reverend Kim Harlan Gaston, Eulogist
Alvis “Alan” Gaston, Sr., affectionately known as "Grizz" or "Bear," was born on Wednesday, December 12, 1951, in Brownwood, Texas, to the late Farries and Vivian (Williams) Gaston. Born the 8th of 15 children, Alan was raised in a household filled with love, resilience, and an impermeable family bond. In 1953, the Gaston family ventured west, settling in Wasco, California, where Alan would reside for the next 44 years.
Alan attended the public schools in Wasco Kindergarten through third grade at Wasco Elementary School, now called Karl F. Clemens Elementary School. He attended Palm Avenue Elementary School for Grades 4 and 5 and then attended Thomas Jefferson Junior High School for Grades 6 through 8. In 1964, at the tender age of 13, Alan became a member of True Light Baptist Church in Wasco, California, under the leadership of Reverend Randle. It was then that Alan surrendered his life to Christ and professed Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.
Alan gained a love for fishing and hunting from his father. In fact, the entire family learned to fish and operate various artillery weapons owned by their father. Following in his parents’ footsteps, Alan was a hard worker. Together with his family, he harvested potatoes, tomatoes, garlic, onions, prunes, and grapes. On his own, however, he worked for farmers harvesting hay, alfalfa, and watermelons. He learned how to drive tractors, irrigate fields, lay water pipes, as well as many other related activities. In between his many “gigs,” Alan also worked as a janitor at his high school he attended. He never was without a way to earn money.
Alan was blessed with such charisma that it exuded from him. His charismatic charm, personality, and ambition defined him as a natural-born leader no matter what circle of influence he found himself among White, Black, Asian, Mexican, as well as those from any other background or walk of life. In a very special way, he was the light of the community. Alan was also cognizant of respect for leadership and could follow when called upon to do so. Once Alan set his mind on a goal, he pursued it with relentless determination. But what made him truly exceptional was his ability to inspire others to stand with him. This was never more evident than during the 1967-1968 school year when he successfully led the entire student body in a walkout to protest a civil rights issue. The next time he planned a demonstration of this type, the school administration got wind and suspended him. This particular protest, however, never took place because no one else would lead the protest without Alan’s presence.
Alan was a brilliant alto saxophone player, having picked up the instrument as a musical elective in school. But he quickly discovered that he had natural talent and a passion for Jazz. When playing Jazz, he was a featured soloist. During a bomb threat in high school, Alan led his bandmates in entertaining the student body with music, playing “Green Onions,” “Mercy, Mercy Me,” and many other songs.
Alan was a gifted athlete and was recruited to play football at Bakersfield College in Bakersfield, California after graduating from Wasco Union high school in June 1970. However, after completing one semester, his heart called him elsewhere. With a spirit that embodied courage and camaraderie, he and three close friends made a bold and selfless decision to serve their country by joining the U.S. Marines. During Boot Camp, Alan quickly distinguished himself as a leader, earning the title of squad leader. In the heart of the Vietnam War, he took on one of the most perilous yet vital roles delivering essential supplies to troops in combat. His service was defined by unwavering bravery, duty, and an unyielding commitment to his fellow soldiers.
After returning home, Alan worked alongside his older brother, Donnie, at Walton Towing, searching for his next great adventure. That search led him to his true calling the open road. He obtained his Class A driver’s license, leading him on a distinguished 36-year career as a Motor Coach Operator with Greyhound Bus Lines. It was during this time that Alan met the love of his life, Patricia Renee Ray. Their love story blossomed through late-night phone calls, steaming cups of hot chocolate, and one unforgettable evening in an orange orchard, where Alan, captivated by Patricia, boldly asked her to marry him after only seeing each other three times. Together, they built a life rich in love, laughter, and legacy, raising three beautiful daughters Shirelle Yvette, Alanicia (his namesake) Marie, and Skylar Renee.
In 1993, Alan and his immediate family uprooted from California and settled in Georgia, where Alan continued driving for
Greyhound. Having been faithful members of Miracle Baptist Church in Los Angeles, California, for over 20 years, Alan and Patricia sought a new church home in Georgia. They found that home at Fairfield Baptist Church in Lithonia, GA, under the leadership of Pastor Micheal Benton. Shortly thereafter, Alan became Pastor Benton’s armor bearer and motor coach operator for the church, driving for numerous church events. After many years of dedicated service, Alan wholeheartedly supported his wife’s calling to pastorship, as she stepped out on faith and founded Faith and Truth Word Church in McDonough, Georgia. He stood faithfully by her side, serving as her right hand, ensuring that her ministry flourished. Alan took considerable pride in his wife’s calling and his own ministerial calling, often assisting with church events and outreach programs, feeding the homeless with his famous barbecue, and making sure the church remained connected to the community.
When Alan wasn’t serving in ministry, he could be found enjoying his greatest pastime fishing. Whether it was alongside his grandson, his godsons, or his buddy, Mr. Frank Armstrong Jr., Alan found peace on the water. Fishing was more than a hobby to him; it was a reflection of his character patient, steady, and always willing to put in the time and effort for something worthwhile. Just as he cast his line into the water with faith that he would bring in a good catch, he also cast love, wisdom, and guidance into the lives of those around him.
Alan embodied the essence of being a “fisher of men,” just as Jesus called his disciples to be. He didn’t just provide for his family he nurtured souls, reeled people in with his kindness, and led them toward faith and purpose. Whether on a quiet morning at the lake or in the midst of everyday life, Alan knew that true fulfillment came not just from the catch, but from the patience, faith, and love poured into the journey.
Beyond his contributions to his profession, the church, and community, Alan was a loving and dedicated family man. He treasured every moment with his children, creating unforgettable memories through his signature "Donald Duck" storytime a beloved tradition that still resonates in their hearts today. He made sure to always carve out time for his grandchildren, where he could impart wisdom, love, and values that would guide them throughout their lives. His presence was the heartbeat of every family gathering, where laughter, storytelling, and joy were in abundance. His infectious laughter, jokes, and kind heart made everyone feel welcome and loved.
Alan was also a devoted godfather, a role he took on with immense pride and love. Children were naturally drawn to him, and in some cases, he even inherited “adopted” godchildren young lives he took under his wing as his own. His impact on them was undeniable, as he nurtured, guided, and mentored them with the same care and dedication he gave his own family. Whether offering words of encouragement, teaching life skills, or simply being a consistent presence in their lives, Alan left a lasting imprint on his godchildren. His ability to connect with and uplift the younger generation was one of his greatest gif and his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched.
Alan leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and generosity. Those who carry his light forward include his devoted wife of 49 years, Patricia; his three daughters Shirelle Y. Armstrong (Son-in-love, Frank Armstrong III), Alanicia M. Gaston, and Skylar R. Perrimon (Son-in-love, Tracy Perrimon); his son Alvis Alan Gaston Jr; 13 cherished grandchildren Kalifa Armstrong, Jiraye Armstrong, Terez Gaston, AJ Gaston, LaNya Boyce, Manyra Armstrong, Aleeah Gaston, Ava Gaston, Mya Hubbard, Maliyah Boyce, Neyla Howard, Alijah Gaston, and Caleb Gaston; three adored great-grandchildren Kahmad, Nova, and Keziah; six sisters Karen Newhouse, Gloria Little, Adrienne Smith, Eva Olivio, Marilyn Calhoun, and Anita Gaston; one brother Kim Harlan Gaston; 14 godchildren Denise Betton, Romie and Rosalind Stephens, Stephanie Jones, Monica Davis, Brittany Moore, Anthony and Yolandria Wyche, Camryn Thompson, Raven Frazier, Destini Thompson, Miah Thompson, Joslyn Howard and Gene Carroll; nieces, nephews; and an expansive circle of family and friends.
Alan is preceded in death by his beloved parents Farries and Vivian Gaston; his son Alvis Alan Gaston II; four sisters Laura Gardner, Pearl Kendrick, Joy Rollins, and Farrilyn Diaz; and three brothers Ras Gaston, Charles Walton, and Donnie Walton.
Alvis Alan Gaston was a force of nature a man whose passion for life, warmth, and extraordinary love for his family left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. His presence was dynamic, his love immeasurable, and his impact ETERNAL His family and countless friends will miss him deeply, but they will honor him always by living with the same boldness, devotion, and unwavering love that he so effortlessly gave.
Master of Ceremony
Pastor Desmond T. Gardner, Nephew Community Chapel Church ~ Compton, CA
Musical Prelude
Processional Clergy & The Gaston Family
Invocation & Prayer
Scripture Reading
Old Testament
Pastor Emeritus Dr. Micheal Benton Fairfield Baptist Church ~ Lithonia, GA
Proverbs 3:1-8
New Testament Philippians 4:6-7
Congregational Song
“I’m a Soldier”
Bishop J.D. Means
Remarks (2 Minutes Please) Preselected Speakers
Acknowledgments & Resolutions
Obituary Reading
Edwina Brown
Stephanie Jones
Sermonic Solo “When the Saints Go to Worship “ Tasha Rene Dorsey
Legacy of a Life Well Lived Treasured Memories Video Presentation
Special Tributes Grandad’s Heartbeats Daddy’s Girls Carrying The Torch
Sermonic Solo “Safe in His Arms” Tasha Rene Dorsey
Eulogy
A Maestro’s Melody
Prayer of Comfort
Parting View
Recessional
Postlude
Reverend Kim Harlan Gaston, Beloved Brother
South Vermont Avenue Baptist Church - Gardena, CA
Richard Shaw, Jr.
Bishop J.D. Means
Praise and Worship Celebration Center - Atlanta, GA
“I Stood on the Banks of Jordan” (Recorded by the Late Great Rance Allen)
foundation of everything we touched. You were my best friend, my lover, my partner in life, my confidant, and my safe place. You made the good days great, the not-so-good days bearable, and even on the worst days, you somehow found the sunshine.
But you were so much more than just my husband. You were a provider in every sense of the word. Our family never wanted for anything, because you made sure of it. You sacrificed, and you worked tirelessly to give us a life filled with love, stability, and abundance. You were a great business associate, a faithful ministry partner, and a servant of God who gave without hesitation and loved without limits. You supported me not only as your wife but as your pastor, standing by my side with unrelenting devotion. You served diligently, not for recognition, but because it was your heart’s desire to pour into others. Your selflessness knew no bounds, and your love was an anchor for all who knew you.
And oh, how you cared for me. These last few years, when life demanded so much of you, when your own strength began to wane, you still put me first. Your love was displayed in the smallest details the way you made sure I had everything I needed, the way you held my hand a little longer, the way you reassured me even when you were the one who needed reassuring. Your devotion through your final days was nothing short of extraordinary. No one no one could have loved me better, cared for me more tenderly, or cherished me as deeply as you did.
Although we were only a few months shy of reaching our 50th Wedding Anniversary, I do not mourn what we didn’t get to have. Instead, I celebrate the 49 AMAZING years we had together years filled with love, partnership, and a bond that defied time. The pain I feel now is immeasurable, like a piece of me has been torn away. But even in my sorrow, I find peace in knowing that this is not the end. Our love is eternal, and one day, I will find you again.
I will miss you, my love, more than words could ever express. But if love could build a bridge, I would walk straight into your arms again. Thank you for the incredible life we shared. You did a good job.
I love you forever and always, Trish
Dad, you were the best father in the world, and no words can truly capture what you meant to us. You gave us wealth not just in material things, but in something far greater. You gave us love, lessons in resilience and wisdom, integrity, and a legacy we will always be proud of.
Thank you for instilling in us the value of family, the importance of standing on our word, and the courage to walk in faith. You loved us and our children unconditionally, never leaving us to question how much we meant to you. Your presence was our safe place, your laughter our joy, and your guidance our foundation.
You were the epitome of a Girl Dad, raising strong, confident daughters who knew their worth because you showed them what love, respect, and protection looked like. To your sons, you were a leader, a guide, and an example of strength and character.
And of course, no one could fire up a grill like you. From summer barbecues where your ribs and chicken stole the show, to your famous fried turkey at Christmas, food wasn’t just a meal it was a love language, and you made sure we felt it in every bite.
We will miss you on this side of heaven your jokes, your wisdom, your unwavering presence but we find comfort in knowing that this is not goodbye. We will carry your lessons, your love, and your name forward, always honoring the man who shaped us into who we are.
Rest well, Dad. We love you forever.
Your Children
Granddad was one of my biggest supporters. He had a way of making every moment special, whether it was through his words, his wisdom, or simply the way he made everyone around him feel loved and valued.
Some of my best memories with him were spent just talking about life, football, and the dreams and aspirations I had for myself. He always told me, “Grandson, one day, you’ll be up on that stage with the rest of those guys.” He believed in me, even on the days when I struggled to believe in myself. No matter what, he always had something encouraging to say, reminding me to be the best I could be.
Every time I visited, he’d be out there by the grill, cooking up something amazing, always making sure everyone felt at home and taken care of. That was just the kind of man he was always giving, always looking out for others, and always leading with love.
You took me and my son in as your own. You loved on us and trained me to take care of your family while you were on the road. You showed me how to love by the way you loved on your family. You have been a father, a brother, an uncle, a teacher and most of all a friend every time I’ve needed you. Vante always said, when Big Al is present, good times and things are happening. Well, in your transition, you are still teaching me not to take family and time for granted. I love you and will always keep your legacy alive.
Love, Tracci aka TT
He was a smooth-talking, funny, and genuine man someone who could light up a room just by walking into it. Every time I visited, he’d point to that picture on the wall and say, “Grandson, you see yo momma and auntie picture up on the wall?” It was something small, but it stuck with me, one of those little moments that meant everything.
Whether we were sitting in the garage looking through old pictures, talking about football, or just spending time together, every memory with him is one I’ll hold onto forever.
Granddad, I love you. I’ll always carry your words, your laughter, and your love in my heart. You’ll always be with me.
Love, Khary aka Pop
You made me feel welcomed into your heart from Day 1. But the day I walked into the garage and saw my picture plastered on your infamous Family Wall of Fame, I knew you truly loved me as your own. I was flooded with so much emotion, and I remember trying to hold my tears back. That moment told me everything I needed to know about how much I meant to you.
Everyone looked forward to the holidays, cookouts, and family gatherings because we knew you were going to add the extra magic by firing up the grill. You made everything feel special grilling ribs, steaks, hot dogs, hamburgers, and even corn on the cob! You did it, not out of obligation, but because you loved to help out in any way you could and put smiles on everyone's faces as they bit into a tender piece of meat or other type of food you'd grilled to perfection.
Thank you for adopting Maxx you took such good care of him. The love between you two was visible, even from afar. He looked up to you as his Master, and you made sure he was always happy and well-fed. We will make sure Maxx is well taken care of in your absence.
Grandad, you were simply one of a kind and will be missed dearly. Your laughter, your wisdom, your love it all left a mark on my heart that will never fade.
I promise to continue to make you proud!
With a love that will never die, Mya
From the moment I met you, you had such a big presence, I knew you were special. Even though I was not related by blood, you embraced me and made me one of your own nieces. Always had a smile and hugs for me, telling me “uncle loves you”. We had talks about me deserving the best and moving on with my life after the death of my husband. Every time I flew into town you were one of my first stops, I appreciate you and all the love you gave me, it was truly an honor to call you my Uncle.
Rest well - love always Ricca
My visits to Georgia will never be the same again without you there. One of my greatest joys was seeing you either at your house or around the corner at Frank and Shirelle’s place. You were either making food for me to taste, bringing me a plate or showing me your new grill, smoker or cooking gadgets. I have so many incredible memories of you but one of my favorites is you teaching me how to fish. We were at the Norfolk Southern Cabins and you showed me how to bait the hook with a worm then throw my line into the water. When something finally tugged on my line, I was jumping up and down and screaming like a little kid… “Uncle I got something”. You laughed and smiled with me while you explained the proper way to maneuver my hands as I reeled it in. I WILL CHERISH THIS MEMORY along with all the others FOREVER… thank you for the fun moments, the great conversations, your desire to ALWAYS share with me ANYTHING you had. But overall just being THE BEST UNCLE ANY NIECE COULD EVER PRAY FOR. I Love You, Trecy
Of all the special gifts in life however great and small, to have you as our uncle was the greatest gift of all . May the wind of love blow softly, and whisper in your ear “We love you and miss you Uncle and wish that you were here”
Deep in our hearts, your life is kept to love and cherish, not forget. No more tomorrows we can share but yesterday’s are always there.
A solid thought, a secret tear keeps your memory ever near Rest in Heaven Uncle you can now be at peace. Erin
Your legacy lives in each loving embrace.
Forever our godfather, forever our guide, Your love, like a river, will never subside.
Miah Thompson
Raven Thompson
Camryn Thompson
Destini Thompson
To my Uncle Alan....there's not enough words that can truly express the pain in my heart. I cannot imagine not seeing your eyes light up and your amazing smile when you see me and call me princess, that was your nickname for me. We love you so very much thank you for loving me, Lonnie, Tony, Alana and Mia - Walton/Torres Family. Please give my mom, dad and our family a hug and kiss in heaven for us. Heaven just got BBQ sweet with one of the smoothest, coolest and most loving Uncles in the world!
LOVE YOU GUYS!!!
I was only 4 when I first met you and your influence on my life remains. Your welcoming southern gentleman character, your timely comedic humor, your protection of your family but especially your darling girls, a personality and true embodiment fitting of a God given father figure wrapped in a bear hug. You set the bar high, on how a Babygirl and growing young woman should be treated, what should be in her view as the head of the household and how to keep it fun and take care of your people with your whole heart. Although there are many, some of my fondest memories with you were trailing behind you picking up fresh cut grass ( I still love that smell today) while I watched you with your big hat and shades mow the lawn ahead making an otherwise cumbersome task in the heat, Fun, Or making our beloved Cha Cha sing for hotdogs while you and GodMommy cooked and sang in the kitchen. They say ships take people places, guiding them to a destination, and that our relationship did, your love and affection showed me and continues to remind me that if someone wants to show up in a relationship they will and if they don’t they will find an excuse, you were without excuse. Thank you for filling such a role in my life and in such a defining time each time. I’m so grateful you got to meet my Husband and 4 year old son before you went home, to know all was well and although I didn’t know that would be our last meeting it was certainly full circle. I love you with my whole heart Poppie, Thank You.
Love always your darlin’ goddaughter, Brittany
Alan, “my Cousin”, I am so grateful for all we shared over the years. Thank you for stepping in to be my big brother, after Reggie died. There were so many days you kept me going; made me focus and reassured me I had a new confidant. Your advice and your love will forever be in my head and heart. You were truly a great man, you loved your family, you protected and provided for them, actually spoiled them rotten, but that’s your character. Always giving and looking for nothing in return. Your faith in God guided you and allowed you to touch so many lives, in manners that will never be forgotten. Rest well in Heaven and know I will forever love and miss you. Until we meet again!
“Your Cuz”
Doll (Falina Williams Thomas)
I first met Al in Los Angeles back in April of 1977 during our training at the Trailways school for drivers. He was on the Western side, and I was on the American side. He and his family lived in Compton, while I was in Fullerton. From the moment we met, it was friendship at first sight.
Driving wasn’t just a job for us it was an adventure. We had tours together, but we called them adventures because we knew how to make the most of every mile. As drivers, we could handle those buses in ways no one else could, and we took great pride in our skill. Our tours were always in demand because Al was a natural administrator, and I was the overseer. We worked as a team, always planning to stay close in each other’s lives just in case of the unexpected.
Over time, our small circle of "Greyhounders"grew It was Al, Moon, Frank Kilgore (whom we simply called Kilgore), Brooks and me (Harold). We shared the road, the long hours, the laughs, and the challenges. Al eventually went to Fresno and got onto the board before us, earning a day's seniority over Moon, Kilgore, and me. Though we all had our own bonds, it was always Al and me hanging out.
This is incredibly hard for me to write because I never thought I’d be saying goodbye like this. Al wasn’t just a colleague he was my brother on the road and in life well over 40yrs.
Rest easy, my friend. You will always be remembered.
Harold, Brooks, Moon
The Greyhound Line Crew
Who was "Bear," you ask? Bear was more than just a name he was a mentor, a friend, and a father figure to so many of us. His unwavering support for the Atlanta Tightlines Bass Club was evident in countless ways. In 2024, he generously provided catering for our end-of-year celebration, and his food was so incredible that people were taking entire pans home by the end of the night.
But Bear's impact went far beyond his cooking. He was a dedicated mentor, not only to me but to countless kids. For the past three years, he never missed a single youth event we hosted. He patiently taught young anglers how to bait a hook and choose the best lure for the day’s conditions. More often than not, you’d find him helping the kids more than enjoying himself because that was who he was. For me personally, Bear was more than a friend he was a guiding force, a father figure whose wisdom and advice shaped me into the man and father I am today. His strength, patience, understanding, and unwavering dedication were unmatched, and I can only hope to embody even a fraction of the virtues he lived by. Bear was the epitome of what it means to be a man, a husband, and a father.
Bear lived a life of selflessness, always putting others before himself. You could see it in the way he cared for his family, his friends, and everyone he encountered. A man of great virtue, pride, and generosity, he will be deeply missed. But his legacy lives on. We will honor his name by sharing the same kindness and love he gave us both with his family and with everyone we meet.
Rest easy, Bear. You did your job well.
Love Always, Gene
From the very first time I met Al, I knew he was someone special. His handshake was genuine the kind that told you everything you needed to know about the man behind it. In that moment, I became "Mr. Frank," but as time passed and our bond deepened, I earned another title his buddy.
Al and I had a mutual respect for each other, the kind that wasn’t spoken but understood. I admired him greatly not just for the man he was, but for the way he carried himself. I always looked forward to seeing Al, whether it was to celebrate the holidays, recognize a personal milestone, or just to kick back during our many impromptu visits. No matter what, we always enjoyed each other’s company. Just two men, carving out time from the noise, sneaking in some "men talk" on the sidelines. Our conversations always seemed to circle back to two things his faith and his family. Secrets? Yeah, we had them. But not the kind that could divide. Our secrets were the kind that revealed our deepest fears about leaving our families behind, about whether we had done enough, given enough, loved enough. These were the conversations we shared, the ones that made our friendship even more special.
There’s only one thing I still wonder about I hope Al wasn’t still frustrated with me for how long it took me to master baiting a fishing pole. I know he did his best to exercise the patience of a saint, but I’m quite sure my struggle with that fishing line pushed his limits more than once during our fishing adventures! Al, words cannot adequately express the emptiness I feel, the weight of knowing I won’t hear your voice or shake your strong hand again. But I hold onto one thing I know I’ll see you again, on that Great Gettin’ Up Morning!
Sleep in Jesus, My Friend, Mr. Frank Armstrong, Sr., a.k.a., Your Buddy
Eastlawn Memorial Park
640 McGarity Road, McDonough, GA 30252
Merle Manders Conference Center 111 Davis Road, Stockbridge GA 30218
Denise Betton Rosalind Stephens
Stephanie Jones Yolandria Wyche
Camryn Thompson Raven Frazier
Destini Thompson Miah Thompson
Joslyn Howard London Boyd
Romie Stephens Donald “Bruce” Crisp
Anthony Wyche M.A. Williams
Fred Walker Gene Carroll
Cory Armstrong Joshua Thomas
Perhaps you sent a lovely card, or sat quietly in a chair. Perhaps you made a meal, or sent up a silent prayer. Perhaps you spoke kind words, or thought of us that day. Whatever the part, we thank you more than words can say.
Thank you for standing with us, sharing in our sorrow, and honoring Alan’s memory. Your kindness and support have been a great comfort to us.
With heartfelt appreciation, The