Gary M. Alexander Sr.

Gary Michael Alexander, Sr., 73, of Villa Grove passed away at his home Monday, April 21, 2025. Gary was born on October 7, 1951, in Indianapolis to William and Joan Horine Alexander, Sr.

Among those surviving are three sons, Gary Alexander and wife Kristi of Tuscola, IL, Frank Alexander and wife Holli of St. Joseph, IL, Rod Alexander and wife Tiffany of Naha, Okinawa, and daughter Nikki Knight of Tuscola, IL.  He is also survived by his sister, Cindy Cummings of Northlake, Texas. His 13 grandchildren also survive Gary: Austin Alexander, Brayden Alexander, Colton Alexander, Jillian Alexander, James Knight, Josh Knight, Haleigh Knight, Matthew Alexander, Ava Alexander, Tommy Alexander, Tracy Alexander, Vanessa Alexander, and Max Alexander. Great Grandchildren: Brooklyn, Levi, Harrison, and Millie Jones-Knight. Paul Pizzola of Villa Grove, IL, was a dear friend to Gary for over 50 years. Gary’s children appreciate the friendship Paul had with their dad. 

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Ed and Bill, sisters Jeanne and Becky, and son-in-law Jeff Knight.

For nearly 50 years, Gary worked as a garbage man. He would wake up at 3 AM every day to support his family, setting an excellent example for his children by working hard in his job.  He enjoyed attending his children's and grandchildren’s sporting events, where you could always hear his voice in the crowd.  He enjoyed coaching his son's baseball and soccer teams. The VFW and JRs in Villa Grove were establishments that treated Gary like family. His children appreciate those establishments for treating their dad very well. Stubborn could be a word to describe Gary. Set in his ways is a phrase that could be used to describe him as well.  Caring, charismatic, and supportive of his family are just a few other words to describe Gary. His family will miss him dearly, but find comfort knowing he is with his family members who passed before him.

Services will be at Joines Funeral Home in Villa Grove on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. A time for family and friends to share stories will begin at 5 p.m. also at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the Villa Grove VFW or JR's Lounge.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary M. Alexander Sr., please visit our floral store.