Last updated on: August 23, 2025
Prince Albert Screws, also referred to as Prince Albert Scruse, was born on October 16, 1907, in Jernigan, Russell County, Alabama, USA. He spent his childhood in the rural South where his family worked hard to make ends meet. Things were plain but not simple during those days. Individuals survived by engaging in farming and small businesses.
Prince Albert was born to Prince Screws Sr. and Julia Bell Jordan. He had a number of siblings: Richard, Katie, Hattie, Ann, and Willie. All these strong family roots instilled in him his life.
Quick Facts About Prince Albert Screws
| Full Name | Prince Albert Screws (later Scruse) |
| Birthdate | October 16, 1907 |
| Birthplace | Jernigan, Russell County, Alabama, USA |
| Occupation | Laborer / Farmer |
| Husband/Wife | Martha “Mattie” Upshaw |
| Age | 89 years (at the time of death) |
| Grandchildren | La Toya Jackson, Rebbie Jackson, Jackie Jackson, Tito Jackson, Jermaine Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Brandon Jackson, Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Randy Jackson |
| Parents | Prince Screws Sr. & Julia Bell Jordan |
| Siblings | Richard, Katie, Hattie, Ann, Willie |
| Children | Hattie Scruse, Katherine Jackson |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
| Death | January 21, 1997 – East Chicago, Indiana, USA |
Name Change
The family initially went by the name Screws. It then was changed to Scruse when his daughter Katherine was young. This change remained with the family and part of their history.
Marriage and Children
Prince Albert wed Martha “Mattie” Upshaw. They had two daughters, Hattie and Katherine (Katie). Katherine went on to be the mother of the renowned Jackson family, including Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson.
Prince Albert provided for his family and labored diligently to provide them with a life better than his. His daughter Katherine became a selfless mother who motivated her children with music.
Connection to the Jackson Family
Through Katherine, Prince Albert became the maternal grandfather of one of the greatest music families in the world. Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, and their siblings were raised with strong family ties. Katherine’s values and love for music came from her parents.
Michael Jackson even gave his first son the name Prince in honor of his granddad. This indicates how significant Prince Albert was to his family.
Life in Alabama and Indiana
Prince Albert spent his childhood in Alabama, which was famous for agriculture and tradition. He later went to Indiana, where the Jackson family started their life. The Jacksons made the city of Gary, Indiana, their home, and an integral part of musical history.
Prince Albert witnessed the early life of the Jackson family. He lived long enough to see them become famous.
Death and Burial
Prince Albert Screws (Scruse) died on January 21, 1997, in East Chicago, Lake County, Indiana. He was aged 89 years. He was laid to rest at Oak Hill Cemetery in Gary, Indiana, the same city where his grandchildren began their music career.
READ ALSO: Janet Jackson Net worth, Age, Husband, Family, Facts & More
Legacy
Prince Albert’s life is more than names and dates. He was a formidable family man with his life tied to one of the largest music legacies in the world. His daughter Katherine became a guiding force for the Jackson clan.
Through his grandchildren and her, Prince Albert’s name continues to exist. Michael Jackson naming his son Prince was a sure indication of love and respect for him.
