Alfred “Bogie” Wallace, 92

Alfred Beauregard “Bogie” Wallace, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and longtime Riverdale resident, died peacefully on Dec. 21, 2025, at the age of 92, with his wife and children by his side.

Born June 24, 1933, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Bogie was raised in the Catholic faith and attended Knoxville Catholic High School, graduating in 1952. Shortly after high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving from 1952 to 1956 in the Korean War aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kearsarge (CVA-33), a chapter of his life he held with deep pride.

His love of country was lived daily. Bogie raised the American flag outside his home each morning, and every evening personally brought it in, pausing to salute it in honor of those who served and those who gave their lives before him.

After completing his military service, Bogie spent much of his professional life in aviation, working 19 years with United Airlines and another decade with Eastern Airlines. Then, Bogie pursued technical training at Atlanta Technical College, earning a two-year certificate in electrical work, so he could provide for his family. He worked at the World Congress Center setting up conventions before retiring at age 65.

In 1970, Bogie married Mary Jo Thompson, known to family and friends as Jody. The two met through a Catholic singles group in Atlanta, beginning a marriage that spanned 55 years and was rooted in shared faith, commitment, and family. Bogie was a lifelong Catholic and a founding member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Hapeville, where he remained a parishioner for more than 60 years. Faith was central to his life, and he attended Mass faithfully every Sunday without fail, a practice he upheld for himself and his family.

Known for his warmth and steady presence, Bogie was often described as the neighborhood uncle — the adult who coached youth sports, worked football sidelines, played kickball with neighborhood children, and greeted neighbors with a firm handshake and an easy conversation. He enjoyed Western movies, playing pool, and spending time in his garage workshop, where he handled home projects and repairs with care and skill.

As a senior, Bogie remained remarkably active. He competed in the Senior Olympics in Clayton County, winning race medals. He was a member of the Riverdale Senior Center, where he enjoyed eating breakfast, visiting, and playing pool. He won many of their pool tournaments. He was also deeply involved with the Knights of Columbus, local council Immaculate Heart of Mary 4420, for more than 26 years. Bogie was a Fourth Degree Knight — the highest degree within the organization — and served as a former Grand Knight of his local council, reflecting both his leadership and lifelong commitment to faith and service.

Family remained at the center of Bogie’s life. He was a devoted father and a hands-on grandfather, known as “Papa,” who happily spent hours playing games like hide and go seek, or simply being present with his grandchildren. His consistency, humor, and quiet reliability shaped the lives of those closest to him.

Bogie is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Mary Jo “Jody” Wallace; his daughter, Terri Wallace, formerly of Brooks; his son, Steve Wallace and wife Terri Ziacik-Wallace of Seattle, Washington; and three grandchildren, Haley Wilson, Devin Wallace, and Delaney Wallace.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Steven and Elizabeth Wallace, and five siblings.

A graveside service will be held at Forest Hills Memorial Gardens in Forest Park. Details will be announced by the family.