George King

Obituary George King, Jr. was born December 25, 1937 in Bessemer, Alabama to the late George and Lillian King. He was the second child of seven. George confessed belief in Jesus Christ and accepted Him as his personal savior at an early age. He was baptized at Oak Grove Baptist Church in West Highland, AL, under the pastoral leadership of Reverend H. J. Jones. He enjoyed participating in Sunday school class discussions and was a favorite of his Sunday School teacher, Mrs. Adlai Alford. He attended elementary, middle and high school in the Jefferson County School System in Bessemer, Alabama where he earned a “12 year perfect attendance” record. He was a proud graduate of Westfield High School, Westfield, AL class of 1956. Upon completing a year of studies at Tuskegee Institute in Tuskegee, AL, George enlisted in the United States Air Force. On October 13, 1963 he married Dorothy Jean Dennis, a practicing Registered Nurse from Bessemer, AL. She traveled with him on many of his tours of duty until his retirement from the military. They made their permanent home in San Antonio, Texas. Dorothy passed away in 2007. George’s favorite pastime was tinkering with his cars. He spent many hours under the hoods of his cars. His all-time favorite was his 1956 red Mustang that he always kept shining and in near mint condition. While serving in the Air Force, George served at active duty stations in Alaska, Japan, Korea and Vietnam. He rose to the rank of Master Sergeant E7. George was honorably discharged from the United States Air Force after 26 years of service to his country. His service distinctions included the National Defense Service Medal, Republican of Vietnam Gallantry Cross and Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. George married Mona Stephens on January 30, 2008. They enjoyed traveling with their bowling league and entertaining at home. They remained united until his death. Mona was a very devoted and loving wife. George leaves to hold his memories dear: wife, Mona S. King; stepson, Michael (Veronica) Stephens; step granddaughter, Zindayha Stephens all of San Antonio, Texas; sisters, Vera (Willie Peterson) King Bessemer, AL, Sherry Knight, Fultondale, AL, Shirley (David) Neal Chicago, IL, Cassandra King, Bessemer, AL, Vanessa Jackson, Saginaw, MI and Michelle (King) Alexander, Pensacola, FL; aunts, Wilma Cephus, Thelma McCasalin, Addie Delores Sea and Willie Mae King; sister-in-law, Pinky (William) Sparks and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.