Alphonzo C Freeman

Alphonzo C. Freemen was born on June 11, 1986, in Cleveland, Ohio, to parents Linda Surrell and Cortez Freeman Sr. He was a devoted father, son, brother, and friend. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Dorothy and Felicia, and one brother, CJ.

Alphonzo faithfully attended Mary B. Wise Memorial Baptist Church, where he accepted Christ at a young age. He was educated in the Cleveland Public School System and proudly graduated from the Adult Education program at Max S. Hayes High School, Pursuing his passion for cooking, Alphonzo earned his culinary degree from the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute in 2004. He poured his craft and love for cooking into every dish he prepared, serving as Head Chef at the 100th Bomb Group Restaurant and The Boiler 65. He later fulfilled his lifelong dream by starting his own catering business, AJ's Catering.

Alphonzo often said, "I want to leave a legacy for my son," a promise he fulfilled through his hard work, dedication, and the love he poured into every dish. He loved bringing people together through his gift of cooking. Alphonzo didn't just prepare meals - he created art with every plate he served. There was no cuisine he couldn't master. He continually worked to enhance his craft and joyfully shared his skills with both customers and colleagues, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege to taste his creations.

His colleagues loved learning from him, often serving as apprentices eager to absorb the knowledge and skills Alphonzo brought to the kitchen. It was through his dedication, creativity, and mastery that he proudly earned the title "Chef AJ 4.0". Customers would call from all over, requesting that Alphonzo personally prepare his signature dishes, especially his famous Seafood Broil. They would often say. "There's a flavor in every bag!" Friends and family cherished watching Alphonzo at the grill, where he would effortlessly whip up his signature sauces and create unforgettable meals, each one filled with love, warmth, and flavor.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory: his beloved son, Alphonzo C. Freeman Jr.; his mother, Linda Surrell; his father, Cortez Freeman Sr.; his siblings, Anquinette Hobbs (Senghor), Cortez Freeman Ill (Denise), Cortez Williams-Freeman (Kris), Dorthea Freeman.

Manuel Isler-Freeman (Donnell), Marvin Freeman (Candice), and Shaunetta Tucker: along with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Alphonzo's memory will forever be cherished by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of love, strength, and devotion lives on in the hearts of his family and friends. The love he gave through his Culinary Art will continue to feed generations.