Alfred “Al” Stewart Jr., a decorated U.S. Army Ranger, retired Greensboro police captain, devoted veterans advocate, and beloved husband, passed away on August 15, 2026. His extraordinary life was defined by courage, loyalty, service, and a steadfast commitment to helping others.

A native of Greensboro, Al graduated from Ben L. Smith High School and Guilford College. Al served in Vietnam with G Company Rangers and later as a gunner aboard a Nighthawk helicopter. For his bravery in combat, he received the Silver Star, two Purple Hearts, and two Bronze Stars, one with “V” device. In June 2025, he received one of the greatest honors of his life: induction into the U.S. Army Ranger Hall of Fame.

His service to his country continued long after Vietnam. Al spent four years in Iraq as a civilian advisor to the U.S. Army, served 15 months with the U.S. Department of State helping rebuild the Lebanese police, and worked for one year as an Army advisor in Afghanistan.

At home, Al dedicated 30 years to the Greensboro Police Department, retiring as a captain. His continuing education included graduation from both the FBI National Academy and the Southern Police Institute. After retirement, Al continued his public service with the Guilford County District Attorney’s Office. He brought to law enforcement the same courage, integrity, leadership, and sense of duty that distinguished his military service.

Al remained a tireless champion for those who served. As longtime chairman of the Guilford County Veterans Memorial, he devoted his time, energy, and heart to preserving the stories and sacrifices of veterans for future generations. He was not simply a chairman; he was a driving force behind the memorial’s mission and a steadfast guardian of its purpose.

As leader of the Black Cap Military Veterans Group, Al helped ensure that Memorial Day in Greensboro remained a solemn remembrance of the men and women who gave their lives for their country. His leadership, friendship, and generosity left a lasting mark on the community he loved.

Al is survived by his beloved wife, Nicki, and a loving family and circle of friends whose lives were enriched by his humor, loyalty, and generous spirit.

In Al’s own words:

 “I have lived a wonderful, happy life with great family and friends. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Guilford County Veterans Memorial, give blood, pick up some trash, help someone who needs it and give some time to nonprofit organizations. Life is great. Make the most of it.”

A military burial service will be held Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 12:30 pm at Salisbury National Cemetery, 501 Statesville Boulevard, Salisbury, North Carolina. A celebration of Al’s life will follow from 2:30pm to 5:00p in Greensboro, NC at the Elks Club, 2201 W. Cornwallis Dr. Those who wish may briefly share funny stories, favorite memories, and what Al meant to them.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Guilford County Veterans Memorial at https://gcveteransmemorial.org/. Al would also be honored by the simple acts of kindness he valued: giving blood, picking up trash, helping someone in need, and volunteering with nonprofit organizations.

Ranger. Soldier. Police officer. International advisor. Veterans advocate. Leader. Friend.

Rest easy, Al. Your mission here is complete. You will not be forgotten.