Herbert Lewis Alexander Jr.

A master carpenter, successful businessman, and lifelong entrepreneur, Jr. was a man of remarkable determination, an unwavering work ethic, and a personality that was truly one of a kind. Known for his stubborn nature and firm belief that there was a right way to do things — usually his way — Jr. lived life on his own terms. He was never short on advice and was always eager to bestow a little wisdom on anyone willing to listen.

Jr. founded H.L. Alexander Construction more than 50 years ago, building a business and reputation that would become a defining part of his life's work. His exceptional craftsmanship, dedication, and extensive knowledge of the construction industry earned him tremendous respect throughout the Richmond area. Over the decades, he developed lasting relationships with fellow contractors, business associates, and clients, many of whom became lifelong friends.

His entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond his original business. Alongside his son-in-law, Jr. helped establish C & A Builders, where he served as president and oversaw the daily operations of numerous residential and commercial construction projects, all while continuing to operate H.L. Alexander Construction. He took immense pride in his work, and the homes, buildings, and relationships he helped build stand as a lasting testament to his life's dedication.

In his later years, Jr. combined his entrepreneurial drive with another of his greatest passions: his love for animals. He founded Bows & Bones Pet Grooming, a successful business that eventually expanded to two locations in the Richmond area. A lifelong animal lover, Jr. had a particularly soft spot for stray cats and dogs, often welcoming animals in need into his home. His beloved dog, PaoPao, held an especially dear place in his heart. Having recently lost PaoPao, his family finds comfort in knowing the two are reunited once again.

A longtime resident of Powhatan, Jr. took tremendous pride in his home and property. He was happiest when he had something to work on, something to improve, or someone to offer his opinion to.

Jr. believed in the value of hard work, self-reliance, and doing things the right way. He wasn't one to sugarcoat his opinions or tell someone what they wanted to hear. Instead, he offered straightforward advice, practical lessons, and the occasional unsolicited words of wisdom. He loved his family, including his grandchildren, in his own unmistakable way. His influence was especially evident in the knowledge and experience he passed down to his sons, H.L. and Roy, who carry forward the lessons he taught them in the construction trade.

Jr. is survived by his wife, Olga Alexander; his children, H.L. Alexander III, Tammy Clarke, Roy Bowman, and Connie Watson; his grandchildren, Jessica, Trevor, Hayden, Easton, Jack, Kaylie, Grant, Brandon, Matthew, and Alyssa; and his siblings, Claude "Wayne" Thomas and Virginia "Sissy" Breeden. He also leaves behind extended family members and many longtime friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rosetta and Herbert Alexander, Sr.; his sister, Peggy Tyler; and his dear friend, Butch.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to At Home Care Hospice for the compassionate care and support provided to Jr. and his loved ones during his final days.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Nelsen Funeral Home, Laburnum Chapel.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., followed by interment at Washington Memorial Park at approximately 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA in honor of Jr's lifelong love and compassion for animals.

Although Jr’s work here is finished, his legacy lives on in the homes he built, the lives he touched, the family he loved, and the countless lessons he shared along the way. And if there is one piece of wisdom he would want everyone to remember, it would surely be: "Don't take any wooden nickels."