James W. Alexander Jr.

James “Jim” Willis Alexander, Jr was born on October 26, 1929 to James Willis Alexander, Sr & Jake Taylor Alexander in Poplar Bluff, MO. Jim graduated Popular Bluff High School, Class of 1947. Attended Southwest Baptist College (SBU) in Bolivar, MO where he met Greta Mae Alexander. They dated 8 years, during which time both completed their bachelor degrees from Oklahoma Baptist University. He received a BA degree in Political Science and Business Minor. His mother’s fear of a looming draft prompted him to enlist in the Air Force and deployed to Europe. He served in the Finance branch of the Air Force stationed in France. Meanwhile, Greta completed her Masters Degree in Social Service and worked for the Kansas City Housing Authority awaiting Jim’s return from the service.
Jim and Greta were married on September 16, 1955, residing in Kansas City, MO. Jim began his career in pharmaceutical sales, later specializing in wholesale sales and writing instruments. They adopted 3 children and moved from Kansas City to Independence in 1969. Both Jim & Greta were active members at First Baptist Church of Independence. In 1985, Jim and Greta opened their own business, Desk Top Office Products, Inc. and Jim continued working until finally retiring at the age of 82 in 2011.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Willis Alexander, SR and Jake Taylor Alexander. An infant sister Phoebe Ann Alexander. His wife, Greta Mae Alexander.
Jim is survived by his 3 children, John Michael Alexander & wife Kim of Bates City, Mo, Jane Elizabeth Cook & husband Jim of Forsythe, MO, Joseph “Joe” David Alexander of Glen Allen, MO.
Grandchildren, Jessica Knight & Husband Nick of Grain Valley, MO, Jacob “Jake” Alexander of Bates City, MO, Alex Milton & wife Ashley of Forsythe, MO, Brittania De La Cruz of Raytown, MO, An adopted granddaughter Mariah Alexander of Excelsior Springs, MO
Greatgrandchildren, Streeter Milton, Kevin De La Cruz, Trinity Jo Knight, Conner and Truman John Knight.