Jay Lee Alexander

Jay Lee Alexander, 67, of Concord, North Carolina, passed away unexpectedly at his home on January 5, 2026.

Jay was born on February 22, 1958, in Charlotte, North Carolina, and was the beloved son of Jewell "Judy" Johnson. Jay grew up as part of a large, close-knit family and remained connected to them throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his father, Jay Worthington Alexander.

Jay was a man who lived with a simple, genuine spirit-one that always loved being with his family. He could always be found with them with his big, bright smile on his face. He loved watching sports with Nate or talking "shop talk" with Ryan. In the kitchen, he was often helping Lizzy with dinner while telling his favorite stories (usually of the beach or Germany). But most often, he could be found playing with his granddaughters.

If you knew Jay, you knew the beach was never far from his heart either. Some of his sons' favorite memories were made in the summers-riding bikes, walking from pier to pier, fishing, building sandcastles, and spending long, sun-filled days in the quieter, family-friendly stretches of South Myrtle, especially around Ocean Lakes. Those moments, and the joy Jay found in them, became a lasting gift he leaves behind.

Over the years, Jay held a variety of jobs, and he was the kind of person who did whatever was needed and took pride in showing up. Most recently before retirement, he worked at Levy's Restaurant at Charlotte Motor Speedway as a dock supervisor/manager, where he handled anything asked of him. He also spent years working in the school system and was especially proud of his time as the first head custodian hired when Weddington Elementary School opened. Jay had a special way with children, and his family often said that one of his greatest joys was simply being around kids. Among the stories that still bring smiles is Jay's time working as a puppeteer-a part of his life that captured his playful creativity and the way he could make others laugh.

Jay was known for being strong-willed in his own way-especially about doctors-and those who loved him understood that he preferred the comfort of home over the walls of a hospital. Though his passing was sudden and deeply unexpected, his family finds comfort in believing he was exactly where he would have chosen to be.

He is survived by his sons, Matthew Ryan Alexander and his wife Elizabeth "Lizzy", and Nathan Alexander; and by his cherished granddaughters, Olivia Alexander and Evelyn Alexander, who brought him great pride and joy. He is also survived by his mother, Jewell "Judy" Johnson; his siblings, Vance Alexander (Dianne), Greg Alexander (Teresa), Wayne Alexander, Robert Alexander (Susan), Lynn Alexander, and Theresa Alexander (Pervis Hutto); along with a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

A formal service is not planned at this time; however, the family may hold a celebration of life at a later date, possibly around a meaningful time such as his birthday, when loved ones are able to gather and share stories.

Jay will be remembered for his love of the beach, his stories, his hands-on way of living, and the unmistakable mark he left on those who called him Dad, Papa, family, and friend. Though he is gone far too soon, all the memories will continue to carry him forward.