Alton Ray \Al\ Bagwell, 89, of Stephenville, formerly of Big Spring, went to be with his Lord Thursday, November 20, 2014 after a short illness. Funeral services will be 2:00 PM Saturday, November 22, 2014 at the Nalley-Pickle & Welch Rosewood Chapel. Interment will follow at Hillside Memorial Gardens in Snyder, Texas.He was born December 29, 1924 in Clyde, Texas. Al joined the United States Army Air Corp and served in Italy and France during World War II. Upon returning home he worked a short time in the oil field, but soon began his food service career by working as a cook in Roby, Colorado City and Snyder. He moved to Big Spring where he worked for the Wagon Wheel Restaurant. After a short period, the owner enlisted Al to start the Wagon Wheel Drive In. After several years, there were three Wagon Wheels In and Al oversaw operations of the drive-ins and a commissary serving all three.In 1962, he purchased what was the \Big M\, and founded \Al’s Drive In\. In 1964, he started \Al’s BBQ\ on 4th Street which is still in operation today.He has held many volunteer positions through the years including, an elder at Hillcrests Baptist Church, President of the local chapter of the Texas Restaurant Association, a State Director of the Texas Restaurant Association, and other offices. He was a member of the Lions Club, the Gideons, and various organizations.Al was preceded in death by his wife; his parents, Clyde and Sally Bagwell; three brothers, Bob Bagwell, Bill Bagwell and Hulen Bagwell; and his sister, Aunt Sis. He is survived by his son, Chuck Bagwell and wife, Sue, of Big Spring;, two daughters, Debbie Donaldson and husband, Bill of Hurst and Cindy Hughes of Gordon; seven grandchildren, and ten great grandchildren.The family suggests memorials to the donor’s favorite charity.Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Big Spring. Online condolences may be made at: www.npwelch.com ,
