Alfonzo "Al" Gist, 96, of Elkhart, formerly of Chicago, passed away on Sunday, March 4, 2018 at his home.

Al was born on May 19, 1921 in Stuttgart, Arkansas to the late James and Mary (Wilson) Gist.  He was also preceded in death by his first and second wives, Cleo Gist and Muriel Gist; a sister, Gloria Mitchell: two brothers, Sam Neal and Otis Mullins; a step-son, LaRoy Gilbert and a great grandson, Jim Kirby.

Left to cherish Al's memory is a son, Clifford (Jerri) Gist of Pittsburgh, PA; two step-daughters, Bobbi Kirby of Cincinnati and Linda (Clarence) Johnson of Whitsett, PA; ten grandchildren: Chester Jr., Carla, Alfonzo, Jerri, Judy, Jackie, Clarence, MeNee, Gina and Edward and fifteen great grandchildren.  Also surviving are a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Al retired from C.P.C. in Argo, IL after many years of employment.  He was also a veteran of the United States Army, serving in WWII.

Visitation for Al will be on Saturday, March 10th from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at the St. James AME Church in Elkhart.  Funeral services will begin immediately following visitation with the Rev. Charlie Cross officiating.  Burial will military honors will follow at Prairie Street Cemetery.  Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.