John Henry Alexander Sr.

John Henry Alexander, Sr. was born on December 15, 1924, in Houston, Texas (Third Ward). He was one of two children born to Rev. and Mrs. Solomon Alexander, Sr. His early life was shaped by education and Christian values instilled by his parents. He attended Luckie and Douglas elementary schools and Jack Yates High School. During his school years, History and English were two of his favorite subjects. His passion for history drove him to be an active member of the Negro History Club at Jack Yates High School under the leadership of his principal, James D. Ryan. By joining the Negro History Club, he was able to engage with like-minded individuals who shared his enthusiasm for historical knowledge.

Throughout his educational journey, John Henry demonstrated a thirst for knowledge and an unwavering commitment to excellence. After graduating from Jack Yates High School in 1941, he attended Prairie View A&M College. He began working at Peden Iron and Steel Co. in 1943 as a Shipping Clerk in the Reinforcement Steel Department. During his 18 years at Peden, he also held the position of Reporter for the “Peden Triangle News”. He worked for UNIVAC for 14 years and finally retired as an Offset Printing Machine Operator at Brown and Root after 12 years of service.

As a child, John Henry was reared in Jordan Grove Missionary Baptist Church on Dowling Street. He was baptized by Rev. W.A. Joshua in October 1933, and became an official member at 9 years old. He was affectionately known as “Brother John”. Over the years, he continued to demonstrate his commitment to his faith and the church, remaining an active member under the pastoral leaderships of Rev. J. R. Lofton, Rev. W.A. Joshua, Rev. W.H. Banks, Rev. Murphy Peterson, Rev. David Roberts, and currently under Rev. Dr. Danny Davis.

Throughout his membership at Jordan Grove, Bro. John played a crucial role in various church organizations. He served in various positions including, a faithful Sunday School member, Superintendent of Records in the Sunday School Department, Assistant Cub Master of Cub Scout Pack 402 of the Boy Scouts of America, Church Clerk for over 60 years, President of Usher Board #2, and eventually Director of Ushers. He was a devoted Usher, serving for 79 years. In addition to his service to Jordan Grove, Bro. John was also a loyal member of Maple Leaf Masonic Lodge No. 147, Prince Hall Affiliation.

Bro. John was first married to Willie Mae Kemp. During their union they had one son, John Henry Alexander, Jr. He later remarried Margaret Lee of Navasota, TX. They remained married for a remarkable fifty-seven years until Margaret’s passing in 2010. During their marriage, the couple

welcomed three children: Pamela Shaw (Floyd), Margaret Ann Rhodes, and David Jerome Alexander.

Bro. John Henry departed this life on Monday, March 4th, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Solomon Alexander, Sr and Elsie Alexander, his brother, Solomon Alexander, Jr, and his wife Margaret Lee Alexander. He leaves to cherish his memory, four children, ten grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and many loving cousins, nieces, extended family members and cherished friends.

Bro. John’s lifetime was irrefutably dedicated to his faith, his family, and his church. His unwavering commitment and countless years of service have made a lasting impact. His legacy will continue to live on. John was born to Solomon Sr and Elsie Alexander in Houston Texas on December 15, 1924.

A visitation will be held on March 16, 2024 from 9am to 11am, at Jordan Grove MBC, located at 2603 Anita St. Houston Texas 77004. Funeral services will immediately follow at 11:am. John will be laid to rest at Houston Memorial Gardens Cemetery 2426 Cullen Blvd. Pearland Texas 7751