Manuel "Ali" Alifonso, Jr.

Retired Army SSG Manuel “Ali” Alifonso, Jr., 74, of Fayetteville, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, December 27, 2025, in the presence of his loving family.

Born in Puerto Rico on January 5, 1951, to Maria Rosa and the late Manuel Alifonso, Sr., Ali later moved to Brooklyn, NY, before embarking on a distinguished career of service to his country. A proud veteran, his military journey took him across the globe, with assignments in Vietnam and Thailand, as well as stations at Fort Meade, MD, Fort Richardson, AK, and Frankfurt, Germany. He eventually settled at Fort Bragg, NC, where he served two tours and ultimately retired from active duty. Ali’s dedication to his community continued long after his military service; he worked briefly at Manpower. Then he spent 18 years working with Environmental Resources in Cary and later dedicated seven years to the Fayetteville Police Department.

Ali was a loving husband and a deeply caring person who believed in enjoying life to the fullest. Known for his sense of humor and his ability to make everyone feel welcome, he was a "big bear hugger" who never met a stranger. He had many hobbies and a generous spirit, which he shared with his community by volunteering for a year at VanStory Elementary, where he took great pride in mentoring a young boy. His warmth, jokes, and kindness left a lasting impact on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Above all, Ali was a devoted family man who was preceded in death by his sisters Iris Alifonso and Mercey Calo. Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 51 years, Maria; son, Manuel Alifonso, III; grandchildren, Tatianna Rachelle Alifonso, Manuel Brian Alifonso, and Miguel Angel Alifonso; and great-grandson, Samuel James Alifonso. He is also survived by his sister, Irene Alifonso Paig; brother, Angel Alifonso; sisters-in-law Awilda Germer (Edgar), Teresa Lopez, Elsie Rivera, and Sandra Reyes (Jimmy); and brothers-in-law Nicholas Reyes (Dina) and Faustino Reyes, Jr. (Adria). His legacy lives on through his many nieces, nephews, Godchildren, friends, and the caregivers who provided him with comfort and support.

The family will welcome friends from 12:30pm to 1:45pm at Sullivan's Highland Funeral Service on Saturday, January 10, 2026. A memorial service will follow at 2:00pm in the chapel to celebrate a life well-lived.

Please see the livestream link below: https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTc2NzIwNzEwODM5NTA1MyZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==

Services are entrusted to Sullivan’s Highland Funeral Service & Crematory.