Al
V. Campo
January 6, 1940 - June 6, 2024With sadness in
our hearts, we announce the passing of Al Campo, Sr., a
beloved figure in Pasadena, TX, who departed on
Thursday, June 6, 2024, at the age of 84. Al was born on
January 6, 1940, in Houston, Texas, where he spent his
formative years attending St. Pius V Catholic School and
showcasing his talents on the city baseball field.
Al's passion for sports followed him through life.
Graduating from Pasadena High School in 1958, he earned
all-district honors and played a pivotal role in leading
the Eagles baseball team to the state semi-finals as a
junior. He also lettered two years as a successful
basketball player. His athletic prowess continued at the
University of Houston where he lettered three years as a
shortstop.
His dedication to teaching and coaching spanned an
impressive 44 years. Beginning his career at San Jacinto
Intermediate in Pasadena, he later moved on to Sam
Rayburn High School before ultimately serving as the
head coach of the Trojans at South Houston High School.
A crowning achievement came in 1985 when he led the
Texan Baseball Team to the State Championship game. His
contributions were duly recognized, as evidenced by his
induction into the Sam Rayburn Faculty Hall of Honor in
2016 and the Pasadena ISD Athletics Hall of Fame in
March 2024.
Beyond his teaching career, Al found joy in competing on
the golf course. He thoroughly enjoyed playing and
beating his family, friends, and ex-athletes. He also
has a musical background which he would showcase at
family gatherings by strumming his guitar and singing
classics by Elvis, Johnny Cash, Lynyrd Skynyrd and
others.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Johnnie and
Lucille Campo.
He is survived by his son, Al Campo Jr and his wife
Shanen, his daughter Kimberly Walsh and her husband
Rick, sisters Linda Stratigakis, Sandy Clay and her
husband John, as well as grandchildren, Ashlyn and
Caitlyn Campo, Morgan Jackson and her husband Chris,
Mason Walsh and his wife Lexi, nephews Michael
Stratigakis, Justin Clay, Adam Clay and his wife Rachel.
He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Noah
and Levi Jackson. Known affectionally as “Coach Campo”
to countless athletes and students whose lives he
touched, Al leaves behind a legacy of inspiration and
mentorship.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt gratitude to
the faculty and staff at Morada Senior Living, Parson’s
House La Porte, and Focus Care Pasadena for the kindness
and compassion during his final months. They would also
like to thank the many visitors that spent time with Al
reminiscing and telling stories in his last weeks. These
moments were special to him, and they truly appreciate
you. A special thanks is also extended to Jimmy and
Karen Johnson for their exceptional care and support
over the past two years. Your selfless acts of kindness
helped bring peace to our family.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Al’s life at
a Memorial Mass at St. Pius V Catholic Church on Friday,
June 14 at 1pm, with visitation starting at 11:30am.
Interment will follow at Forest Park Lawndale.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in
Al’s honor to the Pasadena Education Foundation,
honoring his dedication to education and the community.
Al Campo, Sr will forever be remembered for his warmth,
generosity of time and knowledge, and the lasting impact
he had on all who knew him. |