Keith William Alexander

Born in Rochester, New York, Keith lived a life defined by service, love, and a quietly generous spirit. He proudly served in the United States Navy for 22 years, retiring as a First Class Petty Officer. His dedication to his country was matched only by his devotion to his family and community. He was a member of the Fleet Reserve Association, lifetime member of the NRA and gave to many charities as much as he could.

Keith was married to the love of his life, Karen Lane Alexander, for 43 wonderful years. Their marriage was built on deep love, loyalty, laughter, and companionship.

A faithful member of Two Rivers Church, Keith found great joy in volunteering and serving others. He cherished his church family, especially those in his small groups and Bible study, who meant so much to him.

Keith had many passions and an unforgettable personality. His second love—right after Karen—was John Wayne and classic Westerns. He once dreamed that he was cleaning the house and John Wayne was there to help him. A true car enthusiast, Keith adored his 1966 Charger, affectionately known as “The Beast.” He loved tinkering, fixing things, and was famously resourceful—the one everyone called when something needed repairing.

A devoted cat dad to Sparky, Keith was also a coffee fanatic with a well-known love for chocolate and strawberry milkshakes from just about anywhere. He had a dry sense of humor, an undercover goofball streak, a fondness for making lists, and an endless supply of bad dad jokes. Outdoorsy at heart, Keith loved camping, especially in Colorado, and always found peace in nature.

Above all, Keith loved his family. He was selfless but quiet about it, generous without recognition, and deeply devoted to those he loved. He especially adored his grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Poppie.”

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, William James Alexander and Dorothy Irene Alexander, and by his uncle, William Mosley.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Alexander; his son, James Benjamin Christian Alexander (Shelly) of Northampton, Pennsylvania; his two daughters, Kelly LaDue (Jay) of Rochester, New York, and Kimberly Alexander (Alberto Gonzalez) of New Bern, North Carolina; his brother, Timothy Alexander (Helyn) of Charlotte, North Carolina; and his two sisters, Kathleen Crolli (Gary) of Erie, Pennsylvania, and Sharon Rayno (Chip) of Tyre, New York.

Keith was a proud Poppie to his seven grandchildren: Tiffany Alexander, Jarrett Alexander, Alexis LaDue, Cassidy LaDue, Ayden LaDue, Madilen Cary, and Kelly Gonzalez.

He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Sarah Cook (Jimmy), Jason Alexander (Tracie), Zachary Alexander, Kevin Alexander, and Kaelyn Alexander; his great-niece and great-nephew, Gianna Cook and Dominic Cook; special people who held a dear place in his heart, Bonnie and Kenneth Perrine and their daughter, Ashley; close friends, Chip and Kathy Hartzell; and the many people he loved at Two Rivers Church, who became family to him.

A Memorial service with Military Honors will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 11:00 am at Two Rivers Church, 3321 Neuse Blvd., New Bern, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

Disabled American Veterans (DAV) at www.dav.org or Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family and friends of Keith William Alexander.