Jack Dean Alexander, 87, passed away on May 18, 2025 in Springfield, MO. Born in Dixon, Missouri, on August 17, 1937, to Luther J. and Caroline J. Alexander, Jack was the third child and third son in a loving family. He attended Dixon Public Grade School and graduated with honors from Dixon High School in 1955, where he was recognized for his academic achievements, including the Best Citizenship award and Honor Roll mention.

After high school, Jack pursued higher education at The University of Missouri-Columbia, Lincoln University, Jefferson City, and Drury College.

On June 2, 1956, Jack married his high school sweetheart, Mary Lea Kelley. Together, they shared 39 years of marriage until Mary's passing on June 10, 1995, following a brave battle with cancer. They had one daughter, Kimberlea Horn, who also preceded Jack in death after a valiant fight against cancer. Kimberlea leaves behind two sons, Joshua (Mt. Juliet, Tennessee) and Jeremy (Springfield, MO), both of whom are blessed with two children each.

Jack found love again and married Mary Bell Upchurch on November 29, 1997. Mary Bell preceded him in death on May 26, 2021.

Jack was also preceded in death by his six siblings: Hurschall (1986), Buell (1989), Leland (1990), Linda (2019), Angela (2019), and Brenda (2020). He is survived by his younger brother, Dariel, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Professionally, Jack had a distinguished career. He began his working life teaching at the Maries County Consolidated School District (C-8) before moving into the corporate world. He worked for Commercial Credit Corporation in Rolla, Missouri, where he rose from Unit Collection Manager to General Manager of the St. Robert office. Jack later worked as an accountant for a family-owned business in Rolla, eventually becoming the Corporate Controller. When the business was acquired by ConAgra Corporation, Jack moved into the role of Controller for ConAgra's Pet Foods Division, a position he held for many years until the division was sold. Jack concluded his professional career as the Controller for a five-line GM auto dealership, retiring in October 1996.

Jack was a devout Christian, having been baptized on October 25, 1962, by Ted Sewell during a gospel meeting at the Dixon Church of Christ. After relocating to Rolla in 1963, Jack remained actively involved in the Church, teaching Sunday School classes for both youth and adults. He served as a Deacon at the Rolla Church of Christ for five years and later as an Elder for over ten years. Throughout his life, Jack strived to prioritize his faith and lived by the principles of Christianity.

Jack had many passions outside of his career and ministry. He was an avid music lover, with an extensive collection of vinyl records, tapes, and CDs. He also enjoyed working with small church groups to provide a cappella music for weddings and funerals. Jack's other hobbies included photography, playing musical instruments, and his love for cars.

He and Mary Lea, as well as later Mary Bell, enjoyed traveling together, exploring new places and making lasting memories. During earlier travels with Mary Lea, they had the opportunity to journey from coast to coast, north to south, and even explore parts of Canada and Mexico. Later, in his time with Mary Bell, they were fortunate to make several trips to Tennessee, as well as a memorable visit to Canada, where they had the chance to experience both the U.S. and Canadian sides of Niagara Falls. They also enjoyed a delightful New England Fall Bus Tour, which was a highlight of their adventures.

One of the most unforgettable trips was to South America, where the team he travelled with had the opportunity to provide medical care to both children and adults. Jack shared that while many patients waited for treatment, several mature Christians took the time to engage in Bible study. As a result, several individuals who participated in the study chose to be baptized and put on Christ.

Jack's presence will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.