Robert Tate Alexander

Robert Tate (Tate) Alexander, of Fairfield, Va., died on Sunday, November 7, 2009, at his home. Son of the late John Addison Alexander and Janet Ingles (Fultz) Alexander, he was born on February 16, 1918, in Norfolk, Va. Graduating from Fairfield High School, he attended Washington and Lee University. He graduated Virginia Polytechnic Institute in 1939 with a degree in chemical engineering. He was a lifelong resident of Fairfield and a retired businessman and farmer. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 61 years, Elizabeth F. (Libby) Alexander; two brothers, James G. Alexander Sr. and John A. Alexander; a son, Robert Tate Alexander Jr.; and a grandson, Iain M. Alexander. He is survived by three sons, Dr. Bruce Alexander and wife, Margaret, of Birmingham, Ala., Sam Alexander and wife, Kenmar, of Staunton, Va., and John Alexander and wife, Susan, of Independence, Va.; 11 grandchildren, Brenden, Laura Draper, Lindsay, Chris, Aaron, Micah, Tate, Kyle, Kara, Jason, and Ben; and one greatgrandson, Sam; and dear friend, Judy Hoyt. He was very active in community affairs including lifetime membership in the Fairfield Presbyterian Church; dedicated Rotarian serving as District Governor and receiving the Paul Harris Award...locally he was known as "Mr. Rotary" and a true "southern gentleman." His public service included time as the Rockbridge County Commissioner of Revenue. He was a direct descendent of the first High Sheriff of Rockbridge County. He served in the United States Navy in the Pacific Theater during World War II attaining the rank of Lieutenant. A private graveside service will be held followed by a memorial service 11 a.m. on Thursday, November 12, 2009, at the Timber Ridge Old Stone Presbyterian Church. A luncheon reception hosted by the family will follow at the Fairfield United Methodist Community Center. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations be made to Rockbridge County Public Schools Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 1042, Lexington, Va. 24450. Arrangements by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory, Lexington, Va.