Jessie Howard Alexander

Jessie Howard Alexander departed this earth peacefully to his heavenly home on March 20, 2026, at the age of 97. He lived a full and rewarding life and touched everyone he met with his genuine kindness and humility.

He was born in Attala County, MS, to Earl Alexander and Lula Ramage, a large family of farmers. It was this type of life where he learned the values of hard work and sacrifice, frugality, integrity, and personal responsibility, which he exhibited his entire life. He always said he was just an “old country boy.” One of the many things he learned from his dad was, “If you don’t need it, don’t buy it.”

Jessie attended a small country school until the eighth grade. He was the first of his siblings to graduate from high school in 1948. During his last two years of high school, he was the first person to drive the school bus from his rural community, park it upon arrival, and drive it back to his community, allowing many students to attend and finish their own schooling.

He did not have the opportunity to play sports during his early school years because of his job responsibilities on the family farm. His opportunity was fulfilled when he retired and played on numerous softball teams into his 80s. He loved baseball and football and enjoyed watching every Texas Rangers game and the Dallas Cowboys.

He served honorably in the United States Navy aboard the USS Gregory (DD-802), providing naval gunfire support during the Korean conflict. He was honored with a two-star Korean Service Medal, China Service Medal, and a United Nations Service Medal.

His example of a tireless and relentless work ethic was instilled in all his children. He was dedicated to his family and provided comfort and support to his wife, Lillian, to whom he was married for 63 years, and his five children: John, Ricky, Sandra, Patricia, and Cheryl. His grandchildren, Amy, Carrie, and Colleen, were the beneficiaries of his love, patience, and integrity.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; four sisters; his daughter, Cheryl; and his wife, Lillian.

He is survived by his sons, John Alexander and wife, Kathy; Ricky Alexander; Sandra Peterson and husband, Bryce; and Patricia Hurley; and his grandchildren, Amy Margo and husband, Ray; Colleen Alexander; and Carrie Alexander.

He will be missed by many friends and family who hold a special place in their hearts for a very special man who lived a life with faith, a gentle, generous spirit, and a genuine sense of humor. Well done, good and faithful servant!

A visitation will be held on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Moore Bowen Road Funeral Home, 4216 S. Bowen Rd, Arlington, TX 76016.

A committal service will follow at Moore Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 1219 N. Davis Dr, Arlington, TX 76012.