Bobby Gene Alexander

Bobby Gene Alexander was born in Fort Worth, Texas on August 7, 1937, to Violet and Robert T Alexander. He grew up on the north side of Fort Worth in Lake Worth Texas and graduated from Lake Worth High School in 1955. Following high school, he joined the Navy Reserves, serving several years while traveling and learning new things. After his service, his interest in engineering led him to Texas Tech and later to UT Arlington for his studies.

Bobby began his career as a draftsperson and print boy for Fort Worth Yandell, Cowan and Love where he was mentored and eagerly learned the engineering business. He thrived in the business eventually working his way up to Vice President and part owner before retiring well into his seventies. Throughout his career he worked on many large projects in the Fort Worth area including Will Rogers Coliseum, DFW Airport and many local schools and hospitals.

Bobby married Billye Jo Finch of Fort Worth on April 16,1958. Although they met in junior high, they did not start dating until their first year in college. He often told the story of calling to see if he could get a date with Billye’s sister Gladys, but when Billye answered the phone, he ended up taking her out instead! That phone call resulted in a 66-year marriage and a large close-knit family.

Bobby was a devoted husband, loving father, and an enormously proud grandfather and great-grandfather.

He loved his family and showed it in many ways. He tried to make every game, track meet, or event his children and grandchildren participated in. He also always made sure he gave sound advice to his grandsons every time he was with them. His advice was often about dating, which amused the boys and made them laugh. They will always remember his words of wisdom for each one of them.

Bobby was known for his sense of humor, often telling jokes, and making witty remarks that will never be forgotten. He consistently expressed his gratitude to those who helped him even as his mind was affected by the horrors of Alzheimer’s disease. Up until his last days, he thanked every doctor, nurse, therapist, and attendant that cared for him. Oh, and he loved to sing! He sang songs of old and hymns most often. One of his absolute favorite songs was “Home on the Range” by Gene Autry. He sang it most days. People loved to hear him sing and it was very comforting and soothing for his troubled mind.

Bobby also showed his loving character and big heart by becoming a licensed foster parent and helping Billye foster babies across the many years of their marriage. They opened their home and hearts to fifty plus babies over the years, always helping them find a loving home. Here his love of singing would soothe and comfort many crying babies, most of which were born addicted to drugs or suffering from other health problems. The babies would listen so quietly to his voice. This ministry for Bobby and Billye led to an addition to the family, their first foster baby and fifth child, Andrew!

Bobby, Dad, Papaw will be missed dearly by his family and friends, and will be forever remembered in their hearts, minds, and lives. Rest in peace, until we meet again.

Bobby is survived by his spouse of 66 years Billye Jo Alexander, one sister Shirley Spivey of Azle, son Keith Alexander and wife Cynthia of Weatherford, daughter Leslie Graves and husband Ricky of N Richland Hills, son Mark Alexander and wife Sherrie of Hurst, daughter Kelli Brown and husband Jeffrey of Argyle , son Andrew Alexander of Ridgefield Washington, grandsons Ryan, Chris, Chase, Parker, Spencer, Tyler, Keller, Luke, Sawyer and Brycen, Great grandchildren Savannah, Violet, Kennedy, Bridget, Scarlett, Slayton, baby boy Callum coming soon plus extended family and friends.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to Gladney Center for Adoption or Christ’s Haven Children's Home. Thank you.