James M. Alexander, Sr. (1921 - 2009)

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather

This morning my father-in-law passed away quietly in his home of over 60 years with his wife and his children at his side. He had been in failing health for a long time, so the slow journey has come to an end and Jim is in a better place.

Jim was adored by his six children - especially by my husband, who truly believed his father was invincible. Jim only had a high school education, but he could master mechanics as well as any MIT graduate. He worked for McDonnell Douglas for most of his life and performed job duties that today require a masters degree in engineering. Jim and my uncle both built fighter jets for Mac and we sometimes joke that both men would occasionally let other people help too, if they asked nicely.

Jim enjoyed woodworking. He made a beautiful wooden cradle for his grandson, Ben. He also made an ornate clock which still hangs in the living room. He taught my husband his love for woodworking; but sadly, due to my husband's illness, Jack cannot pursue it any longer.

He also enjoyed cars. He didn't want me stranded on the road, so he showed me how to put oil and radiator fluid in my car. Bless his heart, he would try to explain car mechanics to me only to see my eyes glaze over. Now that my minivan is acting up, it would be nice to hear his opinion on what could be wrong.

Jim was very much a family man. I don't think he ever regarded himself as anything else. He married young - as far as I know, Irene was the only girl he ever went with. Jim and Irene met through Irene's brother, Jack, and the rest is history. A love story that spanned 67 years.

Jim is survived by his wife, six children, 15 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

God Bless You, Dad. We will miss you. You will live in our hearts forever.