Albert Irvin Jr.

Albert Irvin Jr. was born on July 4, 1941, in England, Arkansas, to the late Albert Irvin Sr. and Corine Harris Irvin. From an early age, Albert demonstrated a strong work ethic, determination, and a deep sense of responsibility. He attended Scott Elementary School and began working while still in middle school. In 1958, he worked diligently for Mr. Eddie Hicks and at Walker Corner Grocery Store. He also spent many years as a sharecropper, laboring tirelessly in the cotton fields to help support his family. These early experiences helped shape the character, resilience, and perseverance that would define his life. On March 12, 1974, Albert began his career with Lofland Steel Company, where he faithfully served for 33 years until his retirement. During his tenure, he earned numerous awards, accolades, and bonuses in recognition of his outstanding performance, exceptional work ethic, and unwavering dedication. He was highly respected by coworkers and supervisors alike. Albert willingly shared his knowledge, mentored others, offered words of encouragement, and often assisted coworkers who lacked transportation by ensuring they had a way to get to work. Albert was not a man of many words, but when he spoke, people listened. He possessed a quiet strength and natural leadership ability that commanded respect. He served others with grace, humility, and compassion, always placing the needs of others before his own. He never met a stranger and was known for his generosity, kindness, and willingness to help anyone in need. Whether through a helping hand, wise counsel, or a simple act of kindness, Albert made a lasting impact on the lives of those around him. At the age of 22, Albert met the love of his life, Odessa Whitfield and their love story began. On June 29, 1964, they were united in holy matrimony. Together, they built a life founded on love, faith, commitment, and mutual respect. Their union was blessed with four beautiful children, who became one of Albert's greatest joys and proudest accomplishments. A devoted husband, loving father, and faithful provider, Albert was the epitome of what a man should be. He led his family by example, demonstrating integrity, wisdom, unwavering faith, and perseverance throughout his life. His commitment to his wife and children never wavered, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that his family was cared and provided for. Albert confessed his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior and was baptized at an early age. He became a faithful member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church in McAlmont, Arkansas, under the leadership of Pastor Duncan Wade and First Lady Shirley Wade. His faith remained steadfast throughout his life and served as the foundation upon which he built his family, character, and values. Through every triumph and challenge, he trusted God and remained faithful to his beliefs. Albert Irvin Jr. departed this life on Monday, June 15, 2026, at Baptist Health Medical Center in North Little Rock, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Irvin Sr. and Corine Harris Irvin; his sisters, Emma Jean Hardin, Elnora Irvin, Barbara Booth, and Hazel Williams; and his brothers, Herman Irvin and Therman Irvin. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted daughter, Kendra North (Thomas) of Jacksonville, Arkansas; three sons, Darius Irvin, Fenius Irvin, and Albert Irvin III ("Junior"), all of North Little Rock, Arkansas; six sisters, Jessie Mae Clingmon, Shirley Ruth Cockrell (Rolaid), Rosie Lee Washington, Ethel Dean Louden (Herbert), Patty Gail Brown, and Patricia Ann Jones (Jody), all of North Little Rock, Arkansas; four brothers, James Ervin ("Big Albert") of Adelanto, California, Paul Irvin (Barbara), Clyde Irvin, & Curtis Irvin (Detria), all of North Little Rock, Arkansas; twelve cherished grandchildren: Ashley “Peaches” Irvin, Paula Drone, Kayla Drone, Paul Daniel Drone Jr., Quincy Irvin, Synae Irvin, Elijah Drone, Madison Irvin, Racheal Irvin, Carrington North, Ava North, & Shonia Adams; and four beloved great-grandchildren, Kaylynn "Katie" Murphy, Kayson "Buddy" Terry, Riley Irvin, & Chance North; special brothers-in-laws, Herbert Louden Sr. & Rolaid Cockrell; a special cousin-in-law, R.L. Johnson; & trusted friends, Cornnel Butler, Bruce & Tetia Blanton, the Blanton Brothers, Cosie Robinson, and Mr. & Mrs. Moore, whose friendship and support meant so much throughout his life. Albert also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Albert Irvin Jr.

July 4, 1941 - June 15, 2026