John "Butch" Alexander

Butch" favorite saying when he got ready to leave and go home.

" well it's  time to " Break Camp"

He broke camp with the family for the last time  on May 27th, 2026 we are going to miss you brother, son , uncle and father

John Stevenson Alexander, affectionately known as "Butch,"departed this life on May 17, 2026, in Lancaster, South Carolina. Born on January 9, 1950, in Kershaw, South Carolina, he was the son of Helena V. Clyburn Alexander and the late Grover Alexander, Sr.

John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mildred Whitehead Alexander. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, hard work, and cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. He also shared a loving and devoted companionship with Annette Pate, whom he deeply loved and cared for

John attended Northside Elementary School in Kershaw, South Carolina. In 1964, he relocated to Jamaica, Queens, New York, where he attended Jamaica High School. He later enrolled in Job Corps, where he earned his high school equivalency diploma and developed culinary skills that would serve him throughout his life.

A man of strong faith, John became a member of Shiloh Baptist Church in Jamaica, New York, one of the oldest Black churches in Queens. There, he faithfully served in the Willing Workers Ministry and the Usher Ministry. Utilizing his culinary talents, he prepared meals for numerous church functions and special occasions, always serving with a willing heart and a spirit of generosity.

John dedicated more than thirty years of service to Long Island Jewish Hospital. He began his career as a painter before pursuing training in security services. Through his commitment and expertise, he became highly respected in the hospital's behavioral health division, where he was regarded as an expert in security. Following a long and distinguished career, he retired and returned to his roots in South Carolina.  After returning to Kershaw, John united with Sand Hill Missionary Baptist Church, where he continued to worship and fellowship with his church family.

Known for his sense of humor and unforgettable personality, "Butch" enjoyed playing games on his phone and could often be heard talking back to the screen when things did not go his way. He loved watching Western movies and basketball games, enthusiastically telling players exactly what they should be doing from the comfort of his chair. He treasured spending time with family and friends and was known for his warm spirit and genuine concern for others.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Helena V. Clyburn Alexander; his son, Craig Stevenson of Maryland, brothers, Bruce Craig Alexander of Indian Land, SC, Kim  Alexander of New York, New York and Milton Bernard Alexander (Jackie) of Kershaw, SC, sisters, Susie A. Jacksonand L.E. Tina Barnes both of Indian Land SC, Tisha Alexander of Rock Hill, SC  his devoted companion, Annette Pate; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, church family, and a host of friends whose lives were enriched by his presence.

Though we grieve his departure, we celebrate a life well lived—a life marked by faith, service, dedication, and love.

"Well, it's time to break camp."

Rest well, Butch. Your journey is complete, and your legacy lives on.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John "Butch" Alexander, please visit our floral store.