Alys Genevieve "Gemee" Alexander

Alys Genevieve Alexander, known affectionately as "Gemee," was born to Genevieve Tarlton Hearon and Bob Alexander on December 9, 1957. Quick to greet you with a smile and a "hello darlin',"Gemee was a kindhearted and sweet soul who had a perpetual sense of optimism.

As a child, Gemee was a straight-A student and promising ballerina with a delightful, gentle and tenacious personality. Gemee's life shifted dramatically, however, when she was diagnosed with schizophrenia at age 16. The years following her initial diagnosis were not without difficulty. Despite these challenges, Gemee learned to manage her illness and persevere over the voices in her head. As a testament to her courage and inner strength, Gemee was able to live independently and managed most of her own affairs.

Despite not having much in the form of material goods, Gemee had a generous spirit and was quick to offer small gifts or kind words, as the situation warranted. Indeed, Gemee found great joy in life and had a special manner of being happy and friendly more often than not. Her enthusiasm was often contagious, making her both charming and highly effective at the art of persuasion. Throughout her life Gemee had a creative nature and enjoyed decorating her apartment, dancing, and art.

A long-time resident of Austin, Texas, Gemee left this world at the age of 57 on Saturday, March 21, 2015. While she is gone, her legacy lives on as the inspiration behind her mother's enduring efforts to champion the rights of the mentally ill.

Gemee is survived by her loving mother, Genevieve Tarlton Hearon, and step-father Robert J. Hearon, Jr. of Austin, Texas; father Bob Alexander of Cedar Park, Texas; sister Tarleton Gaun of Sierra Vista, Arizona; and brothers Neil Alexander of Cedar Park, Texas, and Paul Reddam of Austin, Texas.

God speed, Gemee, and may your tears be turned into dancing.