R. J. Alexander, Sr., 85, of Big Spring, died on Sunday, May 5, 2002, in a local hospital. Graveside funeral services will be at 4:30 PM Wednesday, May 8, 2002, at the Peace Chapel at Trinity Memorial Park with Rev. Wanda Hill, pastor of First United Methodist Church of Coahoma, officiating. She will be assisted by Gregg Alexander, grandson, and Ed Humphrey, nephew. He was born on August 31, 1916 in Calf Creek, Texas and married Marjorie Elizabeth Parks on October 31, 1936 in Brady, Texas. She preceded him in death on September 24, 2000. Mr. Alexander graduated from Eldorado High School in 1936. He was awarded a football scholarship to Hardin Simmons University, but an injury prevented him from playing. He worked in Civil Service in San Antonio and Austin during World War II. He then worked as a lease operator for Skelly Oil Company and retired in 1981 from Texaco after 35 years of service. R. J. was an avid golfer and loved playing and later watching. He was a master tinkerer and enjoyed working on cars and electronics. He was known in the community as being able to repair what others couldn't, but he wouldn't accept payment. He was a member of First United Methodist Church of Coahoma. He was a 32nd degree Mason and a member of the Suez Shrine Temple. He was a ham operator and was known by the call sign, W5FAT. Survivors include two sons, Jeff Alexander and wife, Marjorie Ann, of Big Spring, and Dr. Gerald Alexander and wife, Roberta, of Fresno, California; five grandchildren, Gregg Alexander of Los Angeles, California, Michelle Alexander of New York City, New York, Angela Lindstrom of Fort Worth, Tracy Savoy and Stacy Dykes both of Big Spring; and six great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his parents, T. H. and Ollie Alexander; one sister and four brothers. The family suggests memorials to the First United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 50, Coahoma, Texas 79511. The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Tuesday at the funeral home. Arrangements under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home. www.npwelch.com,
