Alvin Ray Bookman was born on April 20, 1944 to Bozie and Enola Bookman in Huntsville, Texas. He was the 5th child of 5 children.

Alvin grew up and received his formal education in Huntsville. He graduated from Sam Houston High School.

Alvin worked until retirement at Albemarle Chemical Corporation. Following his retirement he  moved to Shiro, Texas. He had many hobbies that included traveling, football games, going to casinos and ranching. He was also a member of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Max Toliver.

Alvin will be remembered for his very generous spirit. Each Christmas he made it a point to buy gifts for everyone that he knew.

Alvin was preceded in death by his parents, and brother: Curtis Bookman. He leaves fond memories with his wife: Betty Haynes Bookman; of Texas City, Texas; son: Tyrone Wilson (Cynthia) ; of Trinity, Texas; siblings: Gervis Bookman; of San Francisco, CA., Jaspyr Sanford; of Huntsville, Texas and Fannye Stubblefield (Melvin); of Rockford, IL; grandchildren: Tyreke Carroll, Malik Gordon, Tamya Wilson, Tyrone Wilson Jr. and My'Ona Wilson; great-granddaughter: Mariah Carroll; adopted parents: Booker T. and Myrtle Paulhill; of Shiro, Texas and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.