Alfred Osborn, Jr.

Alfred Shaffer Osborn, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, cousin, and friend passed away peacefully Wednesday, June 19, 2024 at home. Born on March 8, 1939 in Houston, TX as the only child to Dr. Alfred S. and Elsie “Bert” Reagan Osborn, Al moved to McAllen with his parents when he was three weeks old. His birth made local news in the “Valley,” most notably his shock of red hair and “his starting out with more than average advantages.” Al attended McAllen High School (Go Bulldogs!) through his junior year and then transferred to Schreiner Institute in Kerrville, Texas where he graduated in 1957. Al traded in the South Texas palm trees and trips across the Border for big city life in Houston, TX to attend the University of Houston (Go Coogs!) As a young boy in McAllen, Al was fascinated with the construction of his parents’ new house, an interest which led him to earning a bachelor’s degree in architecture. While at the University of Houston, he received numerous design awards, and upon completing his internship, he obtained his licensure to practice architecture from the State of Texas in 1967 and was later licensed to practice in several other states. Al’s career began by working for several prominent Houston architectural firms, before opening his own architectural firm in 1975. He later merged his practice with Richard Vane to form Osborn Vane Architects, a firm that remains active today. Al’s passion for architecture and the relationships he formed with clients and colleagues were of great value to him. He served as a patient mentor to many young professionals and remained a “purist” throughout his career drafting in pencil rather than opting for an electronic method. He was a proud member of the American Institute of Architects, Texas Society of Architects and dutifully served as President of the Houston chapter of Construction Specifications Institute. Al’s most important legacy began with his marriage to Judith Meyers in 1969. After a very romantic elopement in Mexico, Al and Judy started a life together in Houston where they raised three children. To all who knew them well, Al and Judy epitomized the phrase, “opposites attract,” but they were a packaged deal. Fifty-five years of marriage brought many happy moments together shared with family and friends. For Al, time with family was always time well-spent, and he especially cherished being with his children and grandchildren. Al’s hobbies were eclectic. From motorcycles to sports cars, from a brief stint owning a boat to flying lessons, from visiting art museums to playing golf, he was no stranger to trying something new. One pastime remained constant, however – his love of baseball. From days playing Pony League to cheering on his grandchildren on the mound and behind the plate, he never tired of the game. He started as a loyal fan of the Houston Buffs and the Colts and spent up to the last moments of his life rooting for the Astros and his beloved Coogs. Al’s quiet demeanor, humility, even temperament, kindness, gentleness, and playful sense of humor were so appreciated and admired by those who were fortunate to know him. He will be so missed by a great many family members and close friends who are like family. Al is survived by his beloved wife, Judith Meyers Osborn; his children, Dr. Jeffrey Osborn and wife, Yolanda Lawas, Andrew Osborn and wife Marsha, Dina Osborn Koch and husband Tim; and the bonuses of his life -his grandchildren, Katelyn Osborn Romayor and husband Carlos, Tanner Osborn, Alina Osborn, Isaac Osborn, Aidan Koch, and Charlotte Koch. Al is also survived by the most loving, kind, and dedicated caregivers and companions, Hattie Bailey and Bridgette Henry. The family expresses their sincere appreciation for the exceptional and compassionate care Al received during his lifetime from Dr. Howard Rubin, Dr. Monisha Singh, Dr. Kayla McNiece, and Dr. Esther Guy. In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests that any memorials be directed to Congregation Emanu El Houston, Houston Hillel or the charity of one’s choice. A graveside service was held on Sunday, June 23, 2024, at Emanu El Memorial Park, 8341 Bissonnet St., Houston, Texas, 77074.

Alfred Osborn, Jr.

March 8, 1939 - June 19, 2024