09/17/2026
❗Alumni Spotlight❗
Alphonse Hiegel- Class of 1944
To know Al is to love him. A proud Navy veteran, archivist, pilot, bingo lover, family man, world traveler, and friend.
Al Hiegel was born October 1, 1926 in Conway, Arkansas and has proudly called Conway his home for the last 100 years. He honorably served his country as a US Navy radar operator during World Ward II, demonstrating courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment in defense of the USA.
Following his military service, Al became a respected local business leader as the longtime owner of Hiegel Lumber contributing significantly to the growth & development of the local economy.
Al has served his community through leadership & participation on multiple bank boards, Lumberman boards, Red Cross county President, Conway Chamber of Commerce board, Optimist Club Charter member & Founder of Angel Tree program, and United Way fund board & money fund chairman. He received the Wright Brother Award for 50 years of flying with no accidents. He would often take Boy Scouts flying so they could receive their Aviation Merit Badge.
He helped shape the character & identity of downtown Conway by bringing notable landmarks & historic displays to the community- such as the iconic windmill, Navy anchors in front of the Faulkner County Courthouse & Toad Suck Park, and large bomber aircraft display on the side of his building- all serving as lasting symbols of pride and heritage.
Al has served St. Joseph Church & School as Bazaar chairman, Booster Club chairman, President of SJSE, Chairman of Sacrificial Giving, SJS Alumni Board, and began SJ Flea market as part of the bazaar. He & his wife Mary were top contributors to the SJS alumni & family history records & archives that we now hold at the Endowment. He started the Al & Mary Hiegel Endowed Basketball Fund benefitting our athletes each year.
Al was married to Mary Hiegel for 71 years before her passing in 2019. Their three children all attended SJS- Mary Ann Tipton, '66, Philip Hiegel, '68, Jerry Hiegel, '79. Al has 14 grandchildren, all of whom attended SJS, and 41 great-grandchildren. He loved to take his grandchildren frog gigging & fishing. His legacy is reflected not only in his professional and civic contributions, but also in the family he has cherished and nurtured.
His extraordinary life of service, leadership, and devotion to his community and nation will be celebrated on his 100TH BIRTHDAY- October 1st, 2026 which Mayor, Bart Castleberry has declared ⭐⭐"AL HIEGEL DAY."⭐⭐
