Dr. A.L. Clemmons

Dr. A.L. Clemmons completed his life's journey on Friday evening, August 29, 2014 passing away peacefully at the age of 80 in his home surrounded by the love and comfort provided by his cherished "rock", Judi, and his five precious 'baby girls'. Preceding him in death were his parents and his step-son, Kevin Petre. Survivors include his beloved wife and best friend of over 30 years, Judith; daughters, Jan Ridling (and husband, John), Wasilla, AK, and Beth Clemmons, Bloomington, MN; step-son, Greg Petre, Sedona, AZ; a grandson, Brandon Spencer, St. Louis Park, MN; a sister, Joan Rupp, Mahtomedi, MN, and several nieces and a nephew. Surviving as well are his 'baby girl' doggies, Mia, Emma K, Sophia, Tessa G. and Maddy Sue. Al was born in Virden, Ill., on May 2, 1934, to Elwyn and Marian Harney Clemmons. His childhood and youth were spent in Virden and Springfield, Ill. as well as in St. Paul, Minn, where he graduated from Central High School. He served in the Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict, then attended Macalester College where he received his undergraduate and graduate degrees. After his tenure as a history teacher and junior high principal, he obtained a Ph.D in educational administration from the University of New Mexico. In addition to his work as a teacher and principal in Minnesota, Al served as director of data management and legislative liaison under Leonard DeLayo and was Chief of Public School Finance for the State of New Mexico under Governors Bruce King and Jerry Apodaca. The last 29 years of his career were spent as a financial advisor to numerous school districts around the state; first with Quinn and Co. and Southwest Securities and, for the last 15 years as a Senior Vice-President with G. K. Baum and Co, Investment Bankers. Al was a man of great intellect, a man of quiet dignity, integrity, and compassion who lived his life to the fullest. A Santa Fe Opera buff, who so enjoyed several outings to the opera each season; he also looked forward to his evenings in his beautiful gardens sitting with J and the girls sipping a fine Chardonnay from either Napa Valley or Sonoma County. His life was an incredible journey and those of us who shared it were blessed beyond words. And, so as we say good-by to a truly remarkable man, our hearts are filled with sadness, gratitude and love. Godspeed, my dearest Alfie, you will live in my heart forever, soar with the eagles, love from your soulmate and the babies. The family wishes to thank Gentiva Hospice for their kind and loving care during Al's final days on his journey. Services are scheduled for Saturday, October 11, 2014, 2:00 p.m. at St. Mary's Episcopal Church, 1500 Chelwood Park Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made in Al's name to St. Mary's Episcopal Church.