David Ray Alexander

David Ray Alexander, a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, and esteemed engineer, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2026 at the age of 80.

Born on March 16, 1945 in Sikeston, Missouri, he was the eldest son of the late Harvey and Tez Alexander. His family moved frequently during his childhood, spending significant time in Oklahoma, Florida, and Georgia, where he met his future wife, Sandra.

David graduated with honors from the Air Force Academy, earning bachelor’s degrees in Electrical Engineering and History. He later received a Master of Science degree from the University of New Mexico. After being stationed in Albuquerque, he spent his entire professional career there, working for Sandia National Laboratories, BDM, Mission Research Corporation, Air Force Research Labs, and finally as an independent contractor at Cosmiac Research and Development. A widely respected expert in radiation hardening effects, he received numerous awards, published extensively, and was admired by colleagues for the genuine appreciation and value he showed everyone around him.

A man of deep faith, David was active in the Church of the Nazarene for decades, teaching Sunday school for more than 50 years and giving his time and devotion without hesitation. He married the love of his life, Sandra Meeks, on November 10, 1968 in Macon, Georgia. Together they shared 57 years of marriage, raising two daughters, Alicia and Michelle, while modeling the values of faith, family, and dedication. His greatest joy came from his family, especially his grandchildren, Luke and Katie, and their spouses, Hannah and Matt.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sandra; his children, Michelle Alexander and Alicia Haynes and her husband Russell Haynes; and his grandchildren, Luke Haynes and Katharine Major and their spouses Hannah and Matthew. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Tez Alexander, and his brother, James Alexander.