Tributes

The sun rose for Alonzo Rayschell Hargrove on May 13, 1938, in Taylor, Tx. He was the third of twelve children born to Nelson Hargrove Sr. and Louise Zachary Hargrove. He took pride in being the third oldest and earned the nick name “Preacher” from his grandmother Daisy Zachary when he was a young child. He was warm, very humorous and had a winsome personality. Alonzo professed a hope in Christ at an early age and united with Swenson Grove Baptist Church in Taylor, Tx under the Pastoral Leadership of the late Rev. Mack Robinson. The family relocated to Manor, Tx where he attended Manor Public Schools and was the valedictorian of his graduating class at Manor Colored High School. Alonzo moved to Austin, Tx. and united with St. James Baptist Church under the Pastoral Leadership of the late Rev. E.M. Franklin. It was here that he answered the call to preach and proclaimed his first Sermon entitled “What Manner of Man Is This”, March 27, 1969. Rev. Hargrove sang with several quartet groups, two of which were The Southern Wonders and The South Coast Jubilees. Being the studious pupil he was, Rev. Hargrove furthered his education and enrolled in Bishop College’s Larry Kirk Williams Ministers’ Institute and Guadalupe Seminary where he earned his Bachelor of Theology Degree. Rev. Hargrove was called to Pastor his first church, St. Paul Baptist Church in the early 1970s. He went on to found and plant Mt. Gilead Baptist Church where he pastored for over 40 years until his retirement. Alonzo had many hobbies and talents. Some of which were golfing, fishing, bowling and being a master gardener. He loved time with his family and friends where he was always the life of the party. He had jokes for everyone and no one could deliver a punchline like him. He had two special people that he loved spending time and vacationing with, his Brother-In-Love and Sister-In-Love David Sr. and Josephine Bunton. Rev. Hargrove’s pride and joy was his Jo, life mate of 61 years and 58 of whom they were married in holy matrimony. Where you saw one, you always saw the other. They were partners in every aspect of life and ministry. Rev. Hargrove was proceeded in death by his parents Nelson Sr. and Louise Zachary Hargrove, brothers Arthur Hargrove, Joe Hargrove Sr., Larry Hargrove, Nelson Hargrove Jr., and Leory Hargrove. His sister Velma L. Hunter. Daughter-In-Love Ileen Hargrove, Father and Mother-In-Love Rev. Henry E. Hill Sr. and Reonetta Hill. His best friend Pastor W. M. Reed. Surrounded by his wife, daughters, son-in-love Kenneth and niece Ondreau, Rev. A.R. Hargrove left this life of labor and entered heavenly reward. Rev. Hargrove leaves to carry on his legacy, his loving wife Esther Jo Hargrove, Daughters: Sharon L. Haywood (Kenneth), Shayla Hargrove. Sons: Reggie Mack (Barbara), Pastor Rodney Hargrove (Shannan). Grandchildren: Dorian Holmes, Kennard Haywood, Kennet Haywood, Alaijah Hargrove, Ki’ya Clay, Marcellus Mack, Joshua Mack, Nikishia McKinney, Rodney Hargrove Jr., and 7 Great Grandchildren. Sisters: Dr. Lillie Richardson (Thomas), Anita Showels (Ray). Sister-In-Love Margie Hargrove. Brothers: Roy Hargrove, Jerry Hargrove, and Floyd Hargrove. A host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Rev. Hargrove was known for sharing wisdom through memorable sayings that touched the hearts of those around him. Among his most cherished quotes are: “I don’t meet strangers, I meet people.” This phrase perfectly captured his welcoming spirit and ability to connect with everyone he encountered. He often reminded his congregation, “Constant review is student glue,” emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and growth. Another favorite, “Nothing becomes dynamic until it becomes practical,” encouraged others to put their knowledge into action and live out their faith in everyday life. These treasured quotes will forever ring in our ears and remain in our hearts, serving as guiding lights for generations to come.

Tributes

Rev Alonzo R. Hargrove

May 13, 1938 - February 13, 2026