James L. Alexander, age 66, died Thursday, January 22 at his residence in DeRidder, La. after a long battle with cancer. Burial was held at Highland Memorial Gardens in Lake Charles on Saturday, January 24, 2009.

Mr. Alexander was born October 22, 1942 in Monroe, La. He was the eldest son of the late James R. and Mildred Alexander. He attended public schools in Calcasieu Parish before obtaining a Bachelor of Divinity from Arlington Baptist Seminary in May 1973.

Immediately following his graduation, Bro. Alexander accepted the Call of the Lord to begin a mission in Slaughter, La. The mission started with 11 members in a rented house in Slaughter. In June, the “Mission in Slaughter” was organized into a church and adopted the name Grace Baptist Church. After continued growth, the church, with 63 members, outgrew the house and moved to a rented theater in Zachary, La. A new church facility was completed in 1976. Bro. Alexander remained at Grace Baptist Church until 1977.

From 1987 until the present, Mr. Alexander lived in the DeRidder area. He was Associate Pastor and Principal of Beckwith Baptist Christian School. He owned and operated Lorenze Fine Furniture, and also served as the News Director of KVVP radio station. “Life@Home” designated James Alexander as its Senior Citizen of the Year in 2006.

Mr. Alexander is survived by two daughters, Dawnia Craft and Kimberly Riddle of California; two step-sons, Shane Richardson of Bridge City, Texas and Steve Richardson of Starks, La.; one brother Waymon Alexander of Iowa, La.; and one sister, Gwen Phelps of Georgia; seven biological grandchildren; eight step-grandchildren; and six nieces and nephews. Mr. Alexander “Bud” also leaves behind many friends, including his special friend, Jonathan Perkins for whom he was a part-time caregiver. Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.myers-colonialfuneralhome.com.