Alvin James Stephenson Jr.'s Obituary
On April 8, 1978, in Berkeley, California, Alvin James Stephenson entered the
world as a joyful blessing to his loving parents, Lula Mae Hancock and Alvin
James Stephenson Sr. From an early age, his life was shaped by faith, and he
accepted Christ at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church under the guidance of
Pastor Brian Hunter.
Alvin’s educational journey began in Oakland, where he attended elementary
school, before continuing through junior high and high school in Emeryville. A
gifted athlete, Alvin found his greatest inspiration in the legendary Magic
Johnson. Determined to reach the same level of excellence, he dedicated
countless hours to perfecting his skills on the basketball court. His passion and
talent earned him the nickname “Magic” or “Baby Magic,” as those who
watched him play were left in awe of his extraordinary ability.
Beyond basketball, Alvin was a well-rounded athlete and musician. He
participated in tennis and track with Oakland PAL, played football and
baseball, and was a talented trumpet soloist in his high school jazz band.
However, basketball remained his true love. His talent carried him through
college, where he played at Sonoma State and College of Marin, earning two
associate degrees along the way. Recognized for his elite skills, he was recruited
by multiple Division I schools. After careful consideration and a heartfelt
conversation with his mother, Alvin accepted a full-ride scholarship to Hawaii
Pacific University. He proudly completed his collegiate basketball career there
and later graduated from the University of Hawaii with a bachelor’s degree.
Following college, Alvin’s passion for basketball took him overseas, where he
played professionally in the Philippines, Sweden, and Austria. Unfortunately,
injuries forced him to retire from the game he loved. However, his heart for
service led him down a new path.
Alvin transitioned into a career in case management in Hawaii, where he
worked tirelessly to secure housing for the homeless, formerly incarcerated
individuals, and other marginalized communities. His dedication to uplifting
others continued when he became a counselor at a private junior-senior high
school, mentoring students and coaching basketball. His impact as a coach was
profound—when he saw the overwhelming number of students eager to join
the team, he refused to turn them away. Instead, he formed two additional
teams, ensuring every child had the opportunity to play and learn valuable life
OBITUARY
lessons in teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. Under his leadership, his team
made multiple state championship appearances, ultimately winning the school’s first
and only Division Title and State Championship. His success propelled the program
into Division I before he concluded his coaching career.
While living in Hawaii, Alvin met and married Tui Moe, and together they welcomed
four beautiful children: Alina, Angel, Alvin James (AJ), and Al (Baby Al). Fatherhood
was Alvin’s greatest joy, and he cherished every moment with his children. His love
for them was boundless, and his pride in their accomplishments was evident to all
who knew him.
After more than two decades in Hawaii, Alvin returned home in 2020 to care for his
mother and embark on a new career path. Encouraged by his close friend Will, he
pursued law enforcement, enrolling in the San Francisco Police Academy before
graduating from the San Mateo Police Academy in October 2021. He served briefly
with the San Mateo and Tiburon Police Departments before stepping away from law
enforcement in 2022. Seeking new adventures, Alvin transitioned to a career in long-haul trucking in Reno, Nevada, where he traveled across the country, making
memories and lifelong friends along the way.
Alvin was a man of immense heart, unwavering kindness, and an infectious spirit.
He was generous beyond measure, always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone
in need. He never met a stranger—only future friends. His love for people was pure,
and his selflessness left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing
him.
On January 23, 2025, Alvin departed this life unexpectedly, leaving an unimaginable
void in the hearts of those who loved him. He was preceded in death by his fathers,
Alvin James Stephenson Sr. and Howard Hancock, and his beloved niece, Chaia
LaNae Hancock.
Alvin’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication lives on through those who will
forever cherish his memory: his devoted mother, Lula Mae Hancock; his four beloved
children, Alina Chaia, Angel Lani, Alvin James III, and Al Tuitongatau; his siblings,
Natasha Renee, Adrienne, Faionne, Sharla, and Albert; and his cherished nephew,
Nathaniel De’Andre, who was like a little brother and bonus son to him. He is also
survived by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who were
blessed by his warmth and generosity.
Alvin’s impact on this world was profound, and though he is gone, his love and legacy
will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never
forgotten.
What’s your fondest memory of Alvin?
What’s a lesson you learned from Alvin?
Share a story where Alvin's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Alvin you’ll never forget.
How did Alvin make you smile?