Alan “Big Al, Uncle Al” Scott Ferrier

Alan Scott Ferrier (aka Big Al, Uncle Al) of Glenolden, left this world on March 15, 2025 at the age of 73.  Known for his charisma, quick wit, and upbeat personality, Al touched the hearts of everyone he met.  Born and raised in Darby, Pennsylvania, he spent his summers at his family home in Somers Point, NJ.

Al began his career as a teacher. As his family grew, he changed careers to be a courier for Federal Express.  During his time there, he volunteered for the UAW as a spokesperson to help unionize the company.  He worked tirelessly every night giving counseling, taking phone calls, and writing letters for those who felt they were treated unjustly, all the while never taking off his Fed Ex uniform.  His house was a revolving door of workers who needed the expertise of the almighty, “Al Ferrier.”  By the Philadelphia Inquirer, he was once called “The FedEx employee’s equivalent to a “911” emergency service!”

Al was a coach for boys and girls sports for the Glenolden Youth Club and Leedom Little League for many years. He was the ultimate hype man and spent any time he could with his kids on a court or ball field. Rumor has it, you may still hear some Glenolden girls occasionally yelling, “Sharks in the water.”

Al was quirky. He wore mismatched socks, reading glasses with one arm, and ketchup stained shirts.  He was a terrible driver (occasionally driving with his knees as he played drums for Bruce Springsteen). He made everyone belly laugh and made up songs on the fly about the people he was with.  He charmed every 7-11 cashier and bank teller by telling them they were the most beautiful person he had ever seen.  He always insisted on the windows down, never putting on the air conditioning.  He loved playing the game of “Guess How Long It Will Take Us to Get There,’ and then cheated to win.  He was never seen without a diet coke and a Marlboro. Al was one of a kind, and you felt better after being in his presence.

Al was a devoted family man and friend.  He is survived by his wife Debra (nee Dugan), his sons Alan (Cheryl) and Zach, his daughter Rachael (Andy), and his five grandchildren Alan, Riley, Kennedy, Morgan, and Mason.  He is also survived by brother David (Chris) and sister Bonnie (Tom). He was loved tremendously by all of his nieces, nephews, brother and sisters-in-laws.

He is predeceased by his parents Martin Kennedy Ferrier and Elvira Rose Ferrier (nee Gregory),  and his brother Martin Jr. (Roseanne). He is also predeceased by all of the pups he loved and cared for throughout his life.  His dream was to own a golden retriever farm.

Al was the all-time Philadelphia Sports Fan, especially “The Iggles”.  He was so happy to see the last superbowl victory.

Relatives and Friends are invited to his Visitation Friday, March 21^st 10:00 AM – 11:45 AM followed by his life celebration 12 NOON at the DAnjolell-Barone Memorial Home of Wallingford 908 S. Providence Rd., Wallingford, PA 19086. Inurnment Private. In honor of Al, please wear Philadelphia sports gear.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local food pantry.

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