Alcindor Francosis Stancel departed this life unexpectedly on August 19, 2024. He was born on January 19, 1968 at Norfolk General Hospital in Norfolk, VA to Rev. Bettie J. Stancel (“BJ”) and the late Cecil Staton.
“Al,” as he is affectionally known, was educated in the Norfolk Public School System and attended Granby High School. Although he had many vices, he managed to obtain his GED. Al was not exactly thrilled when he and his mother relocated from Virginia to Anchorage, AK. However, he quickly adjusted and began participating in such activities as tobogganing, bowling, and boxing. He would go on to become a three-time state champion—twice in Alaska and once in Virginia—when his family relocated back to Virginia. Deacon Howard (“Smoke”) Alston often sparred with Al in preparation for the middleweight championship medal in Virginia in 1990.
Alcindor had many gifts and talents. He would sing with his uncle, the late Milton (Buck) Stancel and his cousin, the late Shedrick Stancel. They often won local talent competitions. Alcindor played several musical instruments (bongos, drums, guitar, and keyboard). As a young adult, he accepted Christ at Straitgate Evangelistical Ministries in Norfolk, under the leadership of his aunt, Pastor Sally Williams. He recently rededicated his life to Christ at New Life Worship Center in Norfolk. Alcindor volunteered in the Park Place community providing free lawn care, paint jobs and carwash services to the elderly. His love of restaurant work led him to be employed by Hair of the Dog in Norfolk, and he was to begin employment with ODU’s food court on the day of passing.
Quoting from Alcindor’s resume, this is how he characterized himself: “My good work ethic speaks for itself, I am a safe worker, and I learn fast. I am a people’s person, and I am a team-player.” Alcindor was very outgoing, fun-loving and energetic with an infectious smile that would light up any room. He loved his family and friends.
To cherish his memories, Alcindor leaves behind his mother, Rev. B. J. Stancel, one sister, Tacarra Staton of Chesapeake, VA; two brothers, Travis Staton and Cecil (Dink) Staton, both of Chesapeake; five aunts, Bertha Stancel and Evangelist Shirley Sainford, both of Suffolk, VA, Pastor Sally Williams (Gregory) of Chesapeake, VA, Vanessa Stancel of Winton, NC, and Nina Bellamy (Arthur) of Norfolk, VA; special friend, Diane Johnson of Norfolk, VA; and a host of cousins, relatives and friends. Alcindor was well-loved, and he will be dearly missed.
Condolences(9)-
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Deaconess Kimberly Davis, SCBC says
August 24, 2024 at 12:56 pmSleep in heavenly peace Brother Alcindor🌹
Elaine Fennell says
August 27, 2024 at 9:25 amCondolences & heartfelt sympathy to Rev. BJ Stancel & Family on the loss of your Son.
Helen Long says
August 27, 2024 at 12:08 pmPrayers and heart felt sympathy to Rev. BJ Stancel and the family. While I know how difficult this may be, I ask God to comfort abd keep you during this season. Love you all.
Dianne Johnson says
August 27, 2024 at 2:42 pmI send heartfelt condolences to Bettie and the entire Stancel and Staton families. Al’s family was everything to him. I have never known anyone with a heart like Al’s and I miss him deeply. I pray that our Heavenly father helps us with this loss. Love to the families and friends.
Dianne Johnson
Jackie Skinner, SCBC says
August 28, 2024 at 12:47 amRev. BJ
I offer my sincere condolences to you and your family on the sudden passing of your son. We have prayed a many prayers with you for Al so he feels like our son also. May he rest in peace and God grant you all peace and comfort knowing he is safe in the Father’s arms.
Donnell & Bunky says
August 28, 2024 at 6:58 amMay God continue to bless you with His Peace..We love you and we’re praying for you and the family..Just know that God never makes a mistake.
Pete & Denise Hinton says
August 28, 2024 at 6:00 pmOur sincerest condolences on the passing of your son. May GOD bless and comfort you and your family during this time of transition. Praying for all of you.
Twyner Reeves says
August 31, 2024 at 7:43 amAlcindor- means Defender of Men, Protector of Men. A-aware. L-legit. C-cared. I -inspired N-notes. D-dared O-overjoyed. R-renewed. Al, will never be forgotten by me because he was the the first guy I ever dated that kept inviting me to church Straightgate Evangelistical Ministries (Pastor Sally A Williams) He was persistent until I finally gave in. God used him to play a part in my salvation. My condolences to his Mother Ms Bettie, the Stancel, Staton, Rodger’s family. When everyone is gone the Holy Spirit is always. Love you all to Life Twyner Comill Reeves
Debra Y. Williams-Collins says
September 12, 2024 at 7:25 pmFrom childhood to adulthood, you have given me your love and respectt, and allowed me to share space in time with you. When I married the late M. Collins, you welcomed him into your life too; extending love, respect and manly talks. At times, the transition of your love is difficult to understand and bear. Pray for us as we strive to be faithful and accept God’s will and not ours. You are forever in my heart.