Norfolk City Virginia USGenWeb Archives Obituaries.....Alexander, James A. January 23, 2025
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File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
Deborah VanDeveer dlcv@juno.com February 2, 2025, 2:36 am

The Virginian-Pilot, January 28-29, 2025

James A. Alexander, 79, peacefully transitioned into Heaven on January 23, 2025. 
Jim was born on July 20, 1945, in Pensacola, FL, to the late Raymond Reddick and 
Alma Clark Alexander. He was predeceased by his first wife, Patricia Kulas 
Alexander LaFraniere.

After relocating to Ocean View in Norfolk, VA, Jim earned the nickname "Alley 
Cat" for his scrappy nature, charisma, and infectious smile. Known for his 
tender heart, giving spirit, and humble demeanor, Jim made everyone around him 
feel truly valued. He had a playful, silly side and was always quick with a joke 
or prank that could make anyone laugh. His fun-loving nature and ability to 
brighten any room with laughter made him a beloved presence to all who knew him.

Jim attended Granby High School before proudly serving in the United States 
Marine Corps. After his honorable discharge as a Sergeant, he continued to serve 
in the Marine Corps Reserves. Jim went on to have a distinguished 38-year career 
with the Virginia State Police. He served in a variety of roles including 
Trooper, Senior Special Agent, Polygraphist and on the Forensic Bomb Squad and 
Fugitive Task Force.

Affectionately known as "Umpa" to his family, Jim was happiest when surrounded 
by loved ones, especially his "dawg pound" (grandchildren), proudly supporting 
them through all life's moments and cheering them on at every opportunity. An 
adventurous spirit, Jim traveled extensively, riding his Harley Davidson to 
places such as Key West, Daytona Beach, Tail of the Dragon in Robbinsville, NC 
and Sturgis, SD. He was an avid golfer and member of the Battlefield Golf Club 
and enjoyed hunting, wood carving, gardening, collecting unique items, reading, 
brewing ceremonial teas, roasting coffee, cultivating bonsai trees, and reading 
his Bible.

Jim was a lifelong supporter of numerous organizations, including the Marine 
Corps Foundation, the American Legion, and the Wounded Warrior Project. He was a 
32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason and served as Worthy Patron for both Eastern 
Star Lodge 173 and Westminster Chapter 99, and was a proud member of the Khedive 
Temple Hillbillie Unit and the Ocean View Masonic Lodge No. 335 for 50 years.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Becky LaDage Alexander; daughters Heather 
Alexander Vanderploeg (John) and Kimberly Alexander Jordan (Michael); 
grandchildren Courtney Inghram (Jason & great-grandchildren Eloise and Nolan), 
Caroline J. Moughan (Joey), Alexa Vanderploeg, Callie Jordan, Colton Jordan; 
stepdaughters Shannon (Jack & Anderson) and Heather (Josh & Liam, Hannah, and 
Kate). He is also survived by his brothers Raymond Alexander (Carol) and Bobby 
Alexander (Anne Stafford), his nieces (Stephanie, Katie, Meredith), nephew 
(Jeffrey), great-nieces and great-nephews.

The family would like to express their deep gratitude for the special friendship 
and love extended to Jim by Eileen Vanderploeg, John O. Koonce, MaryBeth Hyatt, 
Faye Hoggard, Christine Spall, Richard Lenihan, and his many other treasured 
friends. In honor of Jim's love for Jesus, charitable donations can be made to 
the Billy Graham Association and Samaritan's Purse.

The family will welcome friends at Graham Funeral Home, located at 1112 
Kempsville Road, Chesapeake, on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 
p.m.

A service to celebrate Jim's life will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 
11:00 a.m. at the funeral home, with Pastor Heath Burris officiating.

Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Norfolk, VA, with a reception 
afterward at Graham Funeral Home.

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