Obituary, Death Robert Prince, Renowned Tuscaloosa Attorney Who Heroically Saved Dozens of Lives During 1988 School Hostage Crisis, Passes Away After Brave Battle with Cancer, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Courage and Dedication to Justice
Robert Prince, a highly respected attorney and founding partner at Prince Glover Hays, has tragically passed away after a valiant fight against cancer. Prince was a renowned trial attorney of national reputation, but he is perhaps best known for his heroic role in rescuing dozens of schoolchildren during a hostage situation at Tuscaloosa’s West End Christian School in February 1988.
During the crisis, Prince was called upon by name by the hostage-takers, James “Bud” Harvey and another individual, who were armed and wearing ski masks. Prince, along with Ken Swindle, who would later become the Chief of Police in Tuscaloosa, went to great lengths to negotiate with the hostage-takers, including obtaining a fake pardon from then-Governor Guy Hunt and convincing Harvey to release over 60 hostages before leading him outside for a press conference.
Thanks to Prince’s quick thinking and bravery, the remaining hostages were secured without harm, and Harvey was taken into custody. This heroic act of selflessness and dedication to justice has left a lasting impact on the community, and Prince’s legacy will continue to inspire and motivate others.
Prince’s law firm, Prince Glover Hays, announced his passing on social media, describing him as a “lawyer’s lawyer” who was known for his professionalism, compassion, and fierce advocacy for his clients. Over his 50-year career, Prince achieved numerous verdicts, settlements, and outcomes that are too numerous to name, and he was often sought after by both parties in a dispute due to his exceptional reputation.
In addition to his legal career, Prince was a devout Christian and a dedicated family man, leaving behind his wife of 36 years, Dena, four adult children, and eight grandchildren. His family, friends, and colleagues will deeply miss him, but his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the Robert Franklin Prince Endowed Scholarship at the University of Alabama School of Law, which will be established in his honor.
Prince’s impact on the legal community and beyond is immeasurable, and his passing is a tremendous loss. However, his bravery, compassion, and dedication to justice will continue to inspire and motivate others, and his legacy will live on for generations to come.
As the legal community and beyond mourn the loss of this remarkable individual, we remember his heroic actions during the 1988 school hostage crisis and his countless achievements over his 50-year career. We honor his memory and continue to strive for justice and compassion in his honor.
Rest in peace, Robert Prince. Your legacy will live on forever.
