Alfred Ezekiel Springer, IV

Alfred Ezekiel Springer, IV, aged 82, of Kilgore, Texas, passed away peacefully on December9, 2024 in Longview surrounded by family. 

Born on December 7, 1942, in Midway, Texas, to the late Alfred Ezekiel Springer III and Loraine Knight Springer, he dedicated his life to education and the betterment of his community, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved professor and engineer.

Alfred’s academic journey began at Harmony High School and progressed through Kilgore College, where he laid a strong foundation for his further studies. He earned Master's Degree in both Physics and Mathematics from the University of Texas at Arlington and the University of North Texas, which positioned him to make significant contributions in his fields of expertise.

He had a passion for communications and achieved the highest level of station license from the FCC for Ameture Radio operations. As a Ham radio operator and life member of the VHFFM society he was able to engage in communications with other ham radio operators, world wide. Alfred utilized his skills to participate in the United States Navy-Marine Corps Military Auxiliary Radio System (Navy MARS) and was recognized in 2011 for 40 years of faithful service and relaying thousands of messages from overseas deployed service members to families back home before the program was shut down in 2015. The region benefited from his ham radio service as a member of Sky Warn as a repeater operator working in conjunction with NOAA weather radar stations and other ham radio operators to provide visual confirmation during severe weather of tornado touchdowns giving accurate data to initiate tornado warnings and protect vulnerable communities. 

For many years, he served as a professor at Jacksonville College and Kilgore College, sharing his deep knowledge and passion for learning with countless students. His teaching career also included significant time spent at Duncanville High School, where he impacted many young minds. In addition to his educational roles, Alfred was a Chief Engineer at KKYR, exemplifying his commitment to both academia and practical engineering.

Alfred was an individual of notable character, recognized for his hardworking nature and intellect. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, cherishing the moments spent with his family. He found joy in simple pleasures, enjoying time with loved ones, working at the family ranch, and indulging his curiosity about history and world events.

He is survived by his son, Paul Springer of Harleton; his son, Fred Springer and wife Christine of Altus, Oklahoma; his sister, Johnnie Ross; his sister, Rosa Carol Denson; his grandchildren, Quinton Springer and Ashlynne Pinzon; as well as numerous nieces, friends, and other loving family members who will miss him dearly.

Alfred is preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife of 53 years, Paulette Springer, who he cherished throughout their life together.

A visitation with family will be held on December 18, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Rader Funeral Home in Kilgore, Texas. This will be followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM. Alfred will be laid to rest at Leakey Floral Cemetery in Leakey, Texas, on December 20, 2024, at 1:00 PM.

Alfred Ezekiel Springer, IV, leaves behind not only a wealth of knowledge and experience but also a deep impression on those fortunate enough to have known him. His life was a testament to dedication, love, and the pursuit of knowledge, and he will be remembered with great fondness and respect.