Anthony McCloud

OZARK…Mr. Anthony McCloud, a resident of Ozark, died Wednesday evening, August 13, 2025, in UAB Hospital in Birmingham. He was 62.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Tuesday, August 19, 2025, in Asbury Cemetery with Reverend David Anderson officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:30 until 1:30 P.M. Tuesday at the funeral home. Fuqua Bankston Funeral Home of Ozark is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. McCloud was born on August 7, 1963, in the quiet town of Skipperville, Alabama—a place he always called home. From a young age, he had a deep love for his community and the people in it. He graduated from G.W. Long High School in 1981, where he proudly wore the school colors and played basketball with heart and hustle. He wasn’t just good at the game—he loved the camaraderie, the competition, and the joy it brought him.

Sports were a lifelong passion for Mr. McCloud. Whether it was football, basketball, baseball, or even a good game of golf on TV, he was always tuned in and cheering for his favorite teams. But more than anything, he was a family man. His children were the light of his life, and he poured his heart into being a loving father. He had a special bond with his mother, one that was built on deep respect and unwavering care. He took pride in looking after her—cooking her meals, making sure she was comfortable, and simply being there for her every single day. It wasn’t just a duty to him; it was an act of love.

Mr. McCloud spent many years working at Sabel Steel in Dothan before retiring. He was known for his strong work ethic and quiet dedication. He also served his country with honor as a veteran of the United States Army, a chapter of his life that shaped his sense of discipline, pride, and service.

He was preceded in death by his father, Obie McLeod, his sister, Rena McLeod, and his brother, Wade Elden McLeod. Though their absence left a deep ache in his heart, he carried their memory with him always.

Mr. McCloud will be remembered not just for the things he did, but for the way he made people feel—his kindness, his loyalty, and the quiet strength he brought into every room. He was the kind of man who didn’t need to say much to make an impact. His life was a testament to love, service, and family.

Surviving relatives include his children, Asia Speaks, Dallas, Texas, Marcus Anthony Bell, Ozark, and Tevin Deondre Bradley, Austin, Texas; mother, Betty Cole McLeod, Ozark; sisters, Joan Dangerfield, Dothan, Delois Cohen and Angela McLeod, Ozark; his brother, who became his caretaker and best friend while in Birmingham, Mitchell McLeod, Ozark; nieces, nephews, and cousins.

We want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who showed up for Anthony and for our family during this difficult time. Whether you made the trip to Birmingham to visit with him, stopped by his home to spend time, or simply picked up the phone to call and check in—please know that your kindness did not go unnoticed.

To those who rearranged their schedules, drove long distances, and sat with Anthony just to let him know he wasn’t alone—we are so incredibly thankful. Your presence brought comfort, laughter, and a sense of peace that words can’t fully capture. To those who came by his residence, offering a listening ear, a warm hug, or just a quiet moment of companionship—thank you for being there when it mattered most.

And to everyone who called, sent messages, and lifted us up in prayer—your love and support wrapped around us like a blanket. In moments when we felt overwhelmed, your prayers gave us strength. In moments of sadness, your words reminded us that we weren’t walking this road alone.

It’s hard to put into words how much it means to have a community of people who care so deeply. Anthony was blessed to be surrounded by such love, and we as a family are equally blessed. Thank you for being part of his journey, and for standing beside us with open hearts.