James L. Alexander

James L. "Mr. A" or "Bud" Alexander, 66, of DeRidder, LA, died January 22, 2009 in his home after an extended battle with cancer. Mr. Alexander was born on October 22, 1942 in Monroe, LA.  He was the eldest son of the late James R. and Mildred Alexander.  Mr. Alexander attended public schools in Calcasieu Parish before obtaining his 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 eleven 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.  Mr. Alexander was 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, Louisiana, one brother, Waymon Alexander of Iowa, Louisiana, one sister, Gwen Phelps of Georgia, as well as seven biological grandchildren, eight step-grandchildren, and six nieces and nephews. Mr. Alexander also leaves behind many friends, including his special friend, Jonathan Perkins for whom he was a part-time caregiver.