By Kendra Bryant
Special to the AFRO
Community members gathered to celebrate funeral home founder Albert P. Wylie’s 80th birthday with a street renaming ceremony on April 10 at Wylie Funeral Home in West Baltimore.
With over 30 years in business, Wylie entered the funeral industry in 1993 and now owns three locations across West Baltimore, East Baltimore and Baltimore County.
“None of this would be possible without all of you,” said Wylie. “Thank you to all of the people who support me. I wouldn’t be who I am without all of you. God is so good.”
Known as a man of faith, Wylie’s birthday celebration was blessed by the Rev. Brent A. Brown of Greater Harvest Baptist Church.
“We are here to celebrate his life while he can see it,” said Brown. “We’re here to celebrate his legacy. This will forever be a celebration to remember.”
Wylie’s care has touched the lives of many, including his Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. brother and Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan J. Bates. Bates recalled their early conversations when he first ran for state’s attorney in 2018.
“He said he’d write me a little check but he knew I wasn’t going to win,” said Bates. “I think that kind of sums him up. First of all, he’s cheap. But second of all, he’s going to tell you the truth no matter what it is. And you know what? I lost.”
Despite the defeat, Bates said Wylie later offered him guidance.
“He sat down and talked to me and told me some of the things I needed to do,” said Bates. “He told me that I needed to work a little harder. He explained that the secret to success in Baltimore is making sure you’re in touch with your community.”
Wylie was presented with a certificate from the States Attorney’s Office for his continued investment and leadership in the Harlem Park community, along with an award from the Baltimore City Police Department’s Western District.
“In 2006, I lost my grandmother,” said Maj. Natalia Preston of the Western District. “When I tell you that Mr. Wylie did not disappoint my family at all, from the service to the dress. I am forever grateful to have come in contact with Mr. Wylie and his family. On behalf of my family, countless families around the city and the Harlem Park Community, we thank you for everything that you have done.”
To reveal the street sign, Wylie was joined by family members and staff, including his son and CEO of Wylie Funeral Homes, Brandon Wylie.
“He used to sit out the window and look over here and wonder why they keep dumping trash over there when it’s locked,” said Brandon Wylie. “Then all of a sudden he came up with an idea, called the city and worked with them to create Mount Street. He took a dump and made it into something that we can all love and serve our families.”
The event concluded with praise and worship, followed by the classic rendition of “Happy Birthday” by Stevie Wonder.