Alexander Ralph McGinnis, also known as Al, AJ, Alex, AlSoul, SoulAir, Uncle Al, and Kid, was born on October 28, 1997, in Columbus, Ohio. He went home to rest with our Savior on January 10, 2025. Alex spent his early years in Blacklick, Ohio. He was known for his kind soul and loving spirit. On January 11, 2009, he was baptized at New Salem Missionary Baptist Church. Alex was a faithful believer in the Bible and the Most High.
He graduated proudly from Gahanna High School, where he developed a passion for soccer as a dedicated varsity team member. His experience on the field instilled values of teamwork and discipline. After high school, he attended the University of Akron on an academic scholarship, where he pursued electrical engineering and engaged with subjects like circuit design and electronics. His hard work led to his bachelor’s degree, setting a solid foundation for a promising career in the field.
Alex was a highly talented artist and lyricist, known for his creative flair and passion for self-expression. His interests were diverse; he found joy in running to stay fit and boxing to channel his competitive nature. He was also a strong advocate for healthy living and eating, often sharing his recipes and enjoying the process of preparing meals for family and friends. Additionally, as a young teen, Alex became a dedicated mentor and an inspiring soccer trainer for the youth in his neighborhood.
Beyond his artistic pursuits, Alex was an ambitious entrepreneur who took great pride in designing his clothing brand, reflecting his unique style and vision. He created music that resonated with his experiences and feelings. In his spare time, Alex indulged in photography, capturing moments and scenes that inspired him and translating them into stunning visuals. Each photograph told a story, showcasing his keen eye for detail and composition.
After completing his college education, Alex began his professional journey by working at Emerson, where he honed his skills and gained valuable experience. He later landed a contract with AEP, further advancing his career and expanding his professional network.
Throughout his life, Alex maintained a strong belief in the teachings of the Bible and studied its various translations. He valued its moral principles and sought to incorporate its lessons into his daily life, believing that they provided guidance and purpose in a complicated world.
Alex was the glue that held the family together. He consistently took the time to reach out and express his care and love for his family and friends. Believing in the importance of strong family bonds, he made a conscious effort to align his moral values with those he loved. He never met a stranger and genuinely cared for the people in his inner circle. His love language was quality time, and he dedicated his life to caring for others in this way. He is cherished by many and will be deeply missed.
He is preceded in death by his sisters, Dominae Gaston-McGinnis and Erika McGinnis, and grandparents Ralph and Cecilia McGinnis, Joyce Clarke, and Patti Cowans.
He leaves to cherish his memory: his parents Joyce and Ralph McGinnis, sisters, Sherettha (Rob) Simmons, Danielle McGinnis, Amber (Sean) Sebring, Dajanae (Herman) Washington; brother Brandon (Ladawn) McGinnis; grandfather, Reginald (Karen) Clarke; his nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and many other relatives and friends.
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