Alec "Joe" "Big Al" "Al" Barksdale was born on 12 March 1944 to the late Mr. Willie Barksdale and Ms. Julia Dunbar in Indianola, MS. Our Lord and Savior called Alec home on 10 February 2025.
Joe met and married, who became his wife of 57 years, Celestine "Celes" Whitley, on 01 June 1963.
Big Al served his country in the United States Military for three years, deployed to Fort Gordan, GA.; St. Louis, MO.; Bangkok, Thailand during the Vietnam War; and Oceanport, NJ. On 11 May 1965, Al was transferred for final deployment to Fort Monmouth, NJ, and obtained the rank of E-4 Corporal. As his final deployment approached with an honorable discharge, Big Al and Celes migrated to Long Branch, New Jersey, and had two children, Lionel and Miesha.
Thereafter, he served as a police officer in the Long Branch Police Department and later as the Captain of Security at Monmouth Medical Center until his retirement. While retired, Big Al continued to offer his time and security expertise throughout Long Branch until he could no longer do so.
Al loved music, and he loved to sing. There was no way to have an event, a get-together, or a family function without Al hitting and holding his well-known tenor high note. He enjoyed singing either with the radio, a record, or even with a few friends who played instruments. He enjoyed sharing his talent, which helped him and others to enjoy the moment.
Joe is predeceased by his parents, Mr. Willie Barksdale and Ms. Julia Dunbar, his brother, Joe Edly Barksdale, and his wife of 57 years, Celestine Whitley-Barksdale.
Al is survived by his son Lionel (Dana) Barksdale of Florida; daughter Dr. Miesha (Raymond) Osborne of Maryland; his brothers, Jimmy Stephens of New Jersey, Otis Stephens (Pearl) of North Carolina, Frank Ray of Mississippi, and Melvin Ray (Unknown); his sisters, Murphy Jean Stephens of New Jersey, and Julia Ray (Unknown); three grandchildren Brianna (step-granddaughter), Harley, Temple, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
