Albert Joseph Rother

Dr. Albert Joseph Rother passed away, March 19, 2022.  He died peacefully with his beloved wife Phyllis by his side. Preceded in death by parents Albert and Loretta, brother Edward and sister Caroline. Survived by wife Phyllis; son A. Jay (Kim) daughter Mindy; grandchildren Ashley Rose, (Alex) Joey, Jack, Jason, and Sophia. Sister-in-law Lorraine (Wayne) and caregiver Marie.

Born in St. Louis on March 27, 1942, he was influenced by his six uncles, all served in World War II, and all returned decorated veterans.  As a young man, Al worked alongside his uncles as a roofer and wisely decided to attend college.

From 1960 to 1964 he was a student at Carthage College. He made lifelong friends around campus and in his fraternity. After graduation, he began his career as an educator and met his future wife, Phyllis Racina. They married on May 29, 1966.  A year later he was drafted into the US Army.  The couple was stationed all over the US and in Frankfurt, Germany. Their two children were born in base hospitals along the way. He was discharged at the rank of Captain in 1972.

Al continued his higher education at Florida State University studying Education Administration, earning both his Master's degree and Ph.D. Go, Noles! As a high school principal, he focused on students, offering them unique opportunities to learn. He found scholarships, internships, sponsors, grants, and community funds for students to attend school, camps, travel, and other unique educational and extracurricular opportunities.

Many knew Al through Scouting.  He joined the Boy Scouts in 1949 and was active for over 70 years.  As an Eagle Scout, he assisted many, including his son and grandchildren, to earn theirs. He was determined that  everyone have the best scouting experience possible so he served as course director for Woodbadge and Seabadge training programs. He was a Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow, Scoutings’ honor corps. He guided scouts to exciting experiences at the National and World Jamborees, High Adventure bases in Philmont, Florida Keys Seabase, and the Summit.

Al served in the communities where he lived.  As a Master Gardener, he was an active member of the Watkinsville Garden Club and mentored the Junior Garden club at Rocky Branch Elementary for many years.   He was an active member of the Rotary Club where he made many friends. He enjoyed attending meetings whether in Watkinsville, Florida Keys, or as he traveled around the country.

As an educator, Al not only enjoyed teaching, he loved learning.  He read voraciously and traveled extensively.  In their 55 years of marriage, Al and Phyllis traveled through 50 states and 25 countries. They loved to travel with their children and grandchildren and gifted them with a lifelong love of exploring the world.

A family service was held on March 23.  A celebration of life will be held at the end of April with details to come.  Those wishing to honor Al’s lifelong commitment to community and country, please consider making a donation to your local Boy Scout troop or district or charitable organization of your choice.

Lord & Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, Watkinsville is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com.