[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E685]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF ALVIN STEPHENS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MARK TAKANO

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 14, 2026

  Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of 
Alvin Stephens, a distinguished Army veteran, pioneering pharmacist, 
entrepreneur, mentor, and devoted family man whose remarkable 59-year 
career exemplified public service, leadership, and excellence.
  Following his honorable service in the United States Army during the 
Korean Conflict, Mr. Stephens earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in 
Pharmacy from Texas Southern University in 1959.
  Soon after, he relocated his family to Riverside, California to 
establish his career--becoming the city's first African American retail 
pharmacist when he opened Perris Valley Medical Pharmacy in 1964. His 
professional leadership included service as President of the Riverside 
County Pharmaceutical Association, Western Zone Director of the 
National Pharmaceutical Association, and an active member of the 
Central Los Angeles Pharmaceutical Association.
  Beyond his accomplishments in pharmacy, Mr. Stephens dedicated 
himself to mentoring young people through Career Day programs hosted by 
local school districts, encouraging countless students to pursue higher 
education and careers in healthcare.
  He was also an established, lifelong member of Kappa Alpha Psi 
Fraternity, Inc., committing his time to various roles within their 
Riverside Alumni Chapter.
  Above all his many achievements, Alvin Stephens was a devoted husband 
to Mrs. Ola Faye Stephens, his wife of 66 years, and a loving father, 
grandfather, and great-grandfather. His enduring legacy of compassion, 
integrity, and service to our community will continue to inspire 
generations to come.

                          ____________________