Alphonso Eugene Claiborne, affectionately known as "Tubby" to his family and as "Al" to others, was born June 4, 1952, and departed this life on June 21, 2024, at Henrico Doctors Hospital.  He was the oldest of seven children of the late Eugene Claiborne and Helen Young Claiborne.   He was preceded in death by his father, sister, Jacqueline Kim, and his sister-in-law, Jacqueline T. Claiborne.

Receiving Christ at an early age, Al became a member of Jericho Baptist Church where he participated in Sunday School, Vacation Bible School and numerous plays and programs.  Later, his life was rededicated to Christ under the leadership of Pastor Bruce Claiborne of One Family Ministry.

Al was educated in the Caroline County School System, where he attended Union High School for four years until integration and graduated from Ladysmith High School in 1970. He was a member of numerous organizations including the football team and held position of quarterback at Union High.   His love for football led him to help organize the first football team at Ladysmith High School in which he also held the position of quarterback.  Upon graduation, he attended Virginia State University in Petersburg VA.  Al majored in Business Administration.  Prior to graduation, he was hired as an intern for Safeway Stores and was later hired as the first Black produce buyer for the East coast. He traveled from Canada to Florida.

He was later employed as a  buyer for Sampson Coating, Inc.  Al remained there until he established his own business, "Advertising, Promotions and Design" in 2001.  His business thrived because of his prolific gift as a salesman.  Selling promotional products was his way of providing the best quality items to suit the needs of his customers.  He was an insightful, generous and witty salesman.  Driven, resilient, ambitious, Al was one of a kind. With a unique skill at problem solving, people commonly sought his advice and received it.

While attending Virginia State University, he met Anita Fuller and they later married on  September 16, 1978. Throughout their marriage they were instrumental in hosting family gatherings for holidays, and family celebrations. Family was important to him.  It was his goal to provide any and everything needed to ensure success to each member.  Known for his unlimited generosity, he provided resources and opportunities to everyone

He was also invested in helping others secure an education, often coordinating with universities on their behalf concerning employment, housing and financial aid.

He will be fondly remembered for having a "big heart" and showing love wherever God led him, often sharing his favorite scripture (Numbers 6:24-26) and his testimony.  Al was happiest when he was able to give to others, graciously and abundantly.

To cherish his loving memory, Al leaves his loving, faithful and attentive wife, Anita, his mother, Helen Claiborne, his siblings, Rev. Shelva Clark (Purcell), Robin Reid (John), Janice Mickle (Marcus), Pastor Bruce Claiborne, Dr. Darrick Claiborne (Tara).  He also leaves four godchildren: Krystal Johnson, Kristin Clark, Micah and Madison Claiborne; a special uncle, Larry "Donnie" Claiborne, Special aunts Lucy Wood, Yvonne Akins, Gwendolyn Young and Louise Young. In addition, Al also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends to lovingly cherish his memory.

Special gratitude to Orlando James, Jr.  for his dedicated service and for more than a loyal employee, but also as a friend and family member.  Many thanks for his service and support during Al's illness.

A Celebration of Life of Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 07, 2024 at the Caroline County Community Service Center, 17202 Richmond Turnpike, Milford, Virginia 22514,  with a viewing  one  hour prior to the service.

Interment will be on Monday, July 08, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. in the Signal Hill Cemetery, 12360 Hanover Courthouse Road, Hanover, Virginia 23069