Mr. Alva Ray "Al" Cleavenger, age 76, of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away peacefully in the comforting care of the Center for Hospice on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 2:15 p.m., with his loving wife close by and his faith firmly in hand.

Al was born on January 13, 1949, in the scenic hills of Philippi, West Virginia, to the late Alva Morgan Cleavenger and Christina (Shackleford) Cleavenger. His roots in Appalachia shaped his quiet strength, his appreciation for nature, and his gift for storytelling—especially if it involved fish, deer, or questionable bait choices.

He was a devoted husband to his sweetheart, Thelma J. "Jean" (Dean) Cleavenger, whom he married in Parkersburg, West Virginia in 1984. Their 40 years together were filled with laughter, road trips, gardening adventures, and enough yard sales to outfit a small country. She survives him at their home in Elkhart, where they had made a warm and welcoming life together.

Al is also survived by his sons James M. Cleavenger and Alva R. Cleavenger II, his daughter Jennifer R. Sailor of Elkhart; his sister, Arlene Ewing of Parkersburg; his grandson, Daniel J. Sailor (and wife Frankie); and his treasured great-granddaughter, Jordyn, who was the apple of his eye and his eagerly anticipated future fishing partner. His loyal Yorkie, Lacie Marie, also remains to keep the home fires burning and the recliner warm in his absence.

He now reunites in peace with his brother, Robert Teets, and his sister, Linda Teets-Batton, both of whom no doubt greeted him with open arms and maybe a fishing lure or two.

Professionally, Al worked for many years in the RV and manufactured housing industry, including over a decade as an assembler at Atwood Mobile Homes. He was known for his work ethic, steady hands, and willingness to lend a hand or share a joke when things got tough on the line.

But Al's truest joy—his soul's calling—was found in the great outdoors. Whether wading into a cool stream at dawn or sitting quietly in a tree stand as the woods came alive around him, Al felt closest to God with the sun on his back and the earth under his boots. He was a proud and respectful sportsman who hunted not for trophies, but for sustenance, stewardship, and the stories that came afterward.

Fishing, however, was his true passion. If it swam, Al wanted to catch it—and he likely had a tale about the one that got away (and the five that didn't). He claimed, with a twinkle in his eye, to hold a state record for a Sea Bass caught offshore near Ocean City, Maryland. Whether or not it ever made the books, no one in the family had the heart—or the proof—to challenge him on it.

In his later years, Al enjoyed gardening with Jean, tending to tomatoes like they were prize roses, and prowling yard sales for hidden treasures and friendly conversation. He was an active and faithful member of Victory Chapel in Elkhart, where he found spiritual strength, community, and a place to share his gentle wisdom and generosity of spirit.

At Al's request, cremation has taken place, and in keeping with his humble nature, no formal burial is planned. However, his family invites all who knew and loved him to gather for a celebration of his life on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at Victory Chapel, 30898 CR 20, Elkhart. Pastor Paul Anderson will officiate, and Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements.

In honor of Al's life and legacy, memorial donations may be made to Victory Chapel, where he found great peace, purpose, and fellowship.

As we say goodbye to a man who could cast a line with grace, tell a story with gusto, and love with quiet devotion, we'll remember Al not just by the fish he caught or the deer he tracked, but by the lives he touched. His was a life well lived—in rhythm with the land, in service to others, and always with a heart full of love.