Frederick Alexander

Frederick J. Alexander (Fred), a former resident of Vestal, New York, passed away peacefully at home in Binghamton with family at his side on January 10, 2026, from complications of Alzheimer's disease.

Fred was predeceased by his parents, Dr. Walter and Edith (Filsinger) Alexander, and his siblings Eugene Alexander, Elaine Stone, and Nancy Alexander.

Fred is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Connie. He was the proud father of three children: Jason (Victoria) Alexander of Greenbrae, California; Corrie (August) Cole of Marblehead, Massachusetts; and Eric (Courtney) Alexander of Auburn, California. Fred was a devoted grandfather to Maria Alexander, Maddie and Cate Cole, and Josie Alexander. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Kathy Schlegel and Jenny Grey, as well as many nieces and nephews. Family was Fred's greatest joy and source of pride.

Fred graduated from Binghamton Central High School, Ithaca College (BA in English Literature), and Syracuse University (MSW). He held professional credentials as an ACSW and CSW and devoted his career to public service and advocacy for vulnerable populations. He began his work with the Binghamton Welfare Department and the Broome County Department of Social Services, where he served as Child Welfare Foster Care Supervisor. In 1973, he joined the New York State Department of Developmental Disabilities as part of the first professional staff of the Broome Developmental Center's Community Services Division. Fred retired in 2000 as Director of Community Services for Broome and Tioga Counties. He approached his work with a deep respect for the dignity of every person and a genuine interest in their stories.

Fred's commitment to service extended well beyond his career. He was deeply involved in community and church life, serving on the Mental Health Advisory Board; as President of Catholic Charities of Broome County; Vice President of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Syracuse; a board member of the Diabetes Association of the Southern Tier; Vice Chair of the Good Shepherd Fairview Home Board; and President of the Art Mission. He volunteered for a decade with the Haven after-school program and the Canteen food program at Trinity Memorial Church. He also welcomed the wider world into his home through the Host Family Program for Foreign Students at Binghamton University and the AFS student exchange program.

A man of strong Episcopal faith, Fred loved his church and lived that faith through service. At Trinity Memorial Church in Binghamton, he served as Director of the Christian Education Commission, a member of the Forum Committee, an usher, and spearheaded the Trinity Lunchers Program for over 10 years. He taught Sunday School and served as a Vestry member and a Warden at his former church in Vestal.

In retirement, Fred gave himself wholeheartedly to his creative life. A lifelong artist at heart, he became an enthusiastic student of objet trouvé, with an uncanny eye for beauty in overlooked and discarded objects. Whether discovered at a flea market, garage sale, or auction, these found treasures were transformed through his imagination and thoughtfully matched to the interests of family and friends -each gift an enduring lesson in seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary.

An Eagle Scout and member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, Fred was by any measure a true Renaissance man. His sense of humor, legendary organizational and note-taking skills, joyful storytelling, and infectious smile made him unforgettable to those who knew him.

Fred loved people, believed in their goodness, and took genuine delight in their lives. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

A Memorial Service at Trinity Memorial Church will be held in the spring.

Fred's family wishes to thank his devoted caregivers Tammy Barnes and Bill Cannini, as well as the home hospice care team from Guthrie/Lourdes Hospice, for their compassionate support. In lieu of flowers, donations in Fred's memory may be made to Trinity Memorial Church, 44 Main Street, Binghamton, NY.