By Jamannie Morgan
AFRO Intern
jmorgan@afro.com
On February 2, 2026, Baltimore lost a devoted servant leader whose life was anchored in faith, education, and community. Alice Louise Alston Fitts, born July 10, 1945, in Warren County, North Carolina, spent 80 years pouring wisdom, compassion, and strength into everyone fortunate enough to cross her path.
Nearly fifty years ago, she made Baltimore her home, stepping into a city where her presence would soon become deeply felt. Within the Baltimore City public school system, she served as a counselor who did far more than advise students on academics. She became a steady voice of encouragement, a listener during difficult seasons, and a source of clarity for young people searching for direction.
Her dedication to youth extended well beyond the school building. Through the creation of Noble Enrichment for Children and Youth, she organized summer learning programs, career-focused events, and shared meals that nurtured growth in every dimension. Whether offering guidance about education, spiritual grounding, or life skills, she approached service with intention and heart.
Her influence was equally powerful inside the sanctuary. As First Lady of First Baptist Church, she supported a congregation rooted in fellowship and belief. Her musical selections uplifted worship services, her leadership strengthened programming, and her hospitality turned ordinary gatherings into meaningful fellowship. Rev. Ralph Abernathy once affectionately noted her celebrated corn pudding, a simple dish that symbolized her warmth and generosity.
Recognition of her lifelong impact reached beyond church pews and classrooms. The Washington Wizards honored her contributions, acknowledging the wide-ranging difference she made in the lives of others.
Raised in a farming family in North Carolina, she developed perseverance early in life. Those formative years shaped a woman defined by resolve, spiritual grounding, and an enduring commitment to uplifting her community.
Though her earthly journey concluded on February 2, her influence remains present in former students, church members, loved ones, and neighbors who continue to walk in the example she set. The values she embodied, faith, service, and compassion,will endure for generations.