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Alexander Townsend Obituary

Alexander Boone "Alex" Townsend - SAVANNAH - Alexander Boone "Alex" Townsend, 21, passed away February 14, 2010 as a result of an automobile accident. Every day we were aware that we had this secret gift who we cupped in our hands carefully, a precious, fragile soul touched by God more than most, and delivered to us for safekeeping, for as long as he would stay. We always had the knowledge he was a profound gift to Jeanne, Tom, Nate and Laura and all who loved him, a meteor who shot across our skies, lit our faces, made us watch, changed our perspectives, and taught us things we could learn no other way. In so doing, he prepared our young family for the lives we would have ahead, and with the job done, was gone. Why we were chosen to have him we do not know, but the honor of that, the profound privilege of it, will never be lost on us. Thank you God. Thank you Alex. Thank you all who loved him in St. Louis, Jacksonville, New Hampshire, National Outdoor Leadership School - New Zealand, Orlando, and his beloved Savannah, especially all of you at The Savannah College of Art and Design. We can't wait to have that blinding light strike our faces again. And we will, of course. Death doesn't scare us now; everyone always wants to be wherever you are. SIG. One more thing, Alex- How does it feel being on everybody's shoulders after the game? He is survived by his parents, Jeanne Knowles Townsend and Thomas Kingman Townsend, his brother, Nate and sister Laura, all of St. Louis, MO; paternal grandparents, Dr. and Mrs. James Townsend of Jacksonville, FL; maternal grandfather, Mr. Frank Knowles of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL; soul mate, Chelsea Smith of Orlando, FL; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends. A Service of Remembrances will begin at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 20, 2010 at The Church of St. Michael and St. George followed by the Memorial Service. A reception will follow with the location to be announced. Remembrances: In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to The Oliverian School, P.O. Box 98, Haverhill, NH 03765, (603) 989-5100. Please sign our on-line guestbook at www.foxandweeks.com Savannah Morning News February 20, 2010 Please sign our Obituary Guest Book at savannahnow.com/obituaries .

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Published by Savannah Morning News from Feb. 17 to Feb. 20, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
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Peggy Fonke

March 18, 2010

Tom, I have just learned of the tragic loss of your son. Please accept my hearfelt sympathies and know that you and your family are in my prayers. God's peace to you.

US Airways Savannah

March 6, 2010

Our Prayers go out to You and Your Family.

Gail Miller Bisher

March 4, 2010

Tom, please know that I am thinking of you and your family at this time. I had not met Alex but if he was anything like his Dad he must have been a wonderful person and a great loss for us all.

Jane Lander

March 2, 2010

Jeanne, Tom, Nate and Laura-we were out of town with our family and have just learned of your tragic loss. Laura Shaughnessy gave me a copy of the obituary which is the most touching and heartfelt I've ever read. Rob and I have never forgotten the CD Alex produced about his grandfather's military experiences. The production of that CD was an amazing and creative accomplishment for one so young. Our hearts and prayers go out to each of you.

Joe Toohey

February 26, 2010

Life is odd. Yesterday, I reminisced with an acquaintance about a young family that I had shared time with, chaotic dinners that wandered into the wee hours of the morning, where children ran pell-mell around the table while parents took shifts between eating and safe-guarding the rabble, trips to wineries amidst daunting floods, joys and laughs, first steps and extended adventures. Today, I learn of the loss of Alex. One of the rabble who will always be remembered. Life is a mystery. We dreamed of the future of our children. Watched as they grew from babies to children to young adults. Witnessed as this closely knit group went their separate ways and yet, still fill our thoughts, still live with us every day, still occupy our stories. Even though we have wandered out of touch, I will still remember those times with great fondness and will continue to reminisce about a young family, with such beautiful children, and a young man who will always live in our hearts. Please accept my deepest condolences. Joe

Carole Chambers Hitt

February 24, 2010

Jeanne, I am so deeply saddened by the loss of your son, Alex. There are truly no words of comfort I have to offer. I spoke with Jim, who related the outpouring of love for Alex at the service. He touched many, many lives.
I will hold you in my thoughts and prayers.

marc black

February 23, 2010

I only knew Alex through his Dad's loving words. They were both blessed to know each other so intimately...and to share some wonderful and challenging time together. Life is ever changing, but the love they shared is immutable.

Salerno

February 22, 2010

I did not know Alex but his is the most moving obituary I have ever read. He is so loved - and by so many people. God bless you all.

Ed Brown

February 22, 2010

Jeanne, Mom talked to your dad yesterday and I she told me of your loss. I am so sorry to hear of this tragedy. Linda and I will keep you and your family in our prayers.

Steve Puckett

February 22, 2010

Tom, Jeanne, Nate and Laura I have only four words to say about this tragedy - God be with you.

nancy Rife

February 22, 2010

Jeanne & Tom, although I know you but for a short time Jeanne, at Clayton Ctr and SW coffee, our conversations have often included our kids, and how proud we are. You're a wonderful person, and my prayers go out to you, your husband and kids....I am so sorry of this huge loss, & I'll keep you in my prayers.
Nancy Rife

February 22, 2010

Tom & Jeanne, I met Alex once {at a Bender's rehearsal?} I think,but Saturday I met him again thru the voices of his friends. I could not get inside,so I sat in the entry courtyard under an open window and listened. Truly an amazing young man. I longed to know him more. I've no grasp of the depth of your loss,I' ve no words. I came away determined to live in loving awareness of God's deeper plan. I pray for your grieving. I hope to see you soon..... Kevin Rauscher

Molly Carlson

February 22, 2010

Alex is loved and will be greatly missed. High school wouldn't have been the same without him! He made every day exciting, thank you for touching my life Shmalex! You were a great friend. RIP, my prayers to his family.

February 21, 2010

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. You are in our thoughts and in our prayers.

Joan, Tony, Jack, Loie and Maud Hasler

February 20, 2010

To Jeanne, Tom, Laura and Nate,
We are so very sorry to hear about your son Alex. Our hearts goes out to you. Although I never got to meet Alex, I do remember you speaking of him Jeanne and how proud you were of him and all of your children. We are thinking of you and holding your family in our prayers. jill indovino

Robin and David Gutmann

February 20, 2010

Dear Jeanne and Tom,
Many years ago, we sat with you at a progressive dinner for Alex and, our daughter, Rebecca's, 6th grade class at Clayton. You shared the story of Alex's amazing history project (and film) interviewing a WWII Veteran. What a difference he made in the life of that Veteran and his family. Sorry we never got to really know Alex since he finished at a different school. Judging from the many notes left, he continued on as a unique, well loved young man. May you all be comforted daily by the blessing of Alex's Memory.
Parents of Becca CHS 2007

Andrew Wainwright

February 20, 2010

I have many fond memories of Alex. He was truly a person full of love and life. His love of art, music, and his generosity to others impressed me. I also know that mornings weren't his favorite time and he liked to sleep in, but once up, his energy and zeal were unsurpassed. I send my love, support, and prayers to the family.

Andrew T. Wainwright
(Dorm Parent, Teacher, and Friend from the Oliverian School)
Taylor Wainwright
(Classmate)

Marguerite Garrick

February 20, 2010

Dear Tom, Jeanne, Nate, and Laura, Our thoughts and love are with you at this time of terrible loss. We will always remember Alex making us laugh until we cried as we drove through the Kenyan twilight. Amanda, Priscilla, Marguerite, and Robert

Frank Oros

February 20, 2010

Tom, Jeanne and family,
We all know that God's love, your faith, your family, your friends and your knowledge of where Alex is will hold you up. Sounds like Alex touched many people, and will continue to influence everyone who has had the fortune to know him. Naturally you are in our thoughts and prayers. Peace, friends from Lu and me.

Tom, Tammy, Becca, Daniel and Patricia Walsh

February 20, 2010

Jeanne, Tom, Nate and Laura,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief.

Lu Oros

February 20, 2010

Words can't express .... we will keep you in our prayers. LuAnn and Franklin O.

M S

February 19, 2010

Nate, Your friends at St. Louis U. HIgh are with you buddy. You, your parents, Laura, and Alex are in our thoughts and prayers.

February 19, 2010

The thoughts and prayers of many are with you during this time. May you know God's peace and comfort today and always.

The Community Bible Study Family
Coppell/Lewisville, TX.

Sherry and Denny Vogel

February 19, 2010

Our hearts and prayers are with you daily at this most difficult time. Our son, Greg, often spoke so very highly about Alex and your wonderful family. His heart was touched by Alex and by you all, and he is deeply grieved. Even though we never had the privilege to meet Alex, we share the grief and have you in our prayers. We have over 30 faithful praying friends who are also lifting your family up to our Father in heaven. May you receive strength and comfort from Jesus and know the depth of His love for you.
"Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of His saints." Ps.116:15
With His mighty love,

February 19, 2010

Tom,'
I was so Sorry to hear the new of the lose of Yous son. I am thinking of your entire family and prayer for you all at this very difficult time.
Most Sincerely,'
Cindy Lenox
Bonneville Radio St. Louis

AMOM

February 19, 2010

I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS!
MAY OUR SAVIOUR BLESS YOU AND
YOUR FAMILY WITH GUIDENS AND STRENGHT
DURING A TIME SUCH AS THIS.
CONTINUE TO STAY STEADFAST AND
PRAYERFUL.HE WILL SEE YOU THROUGH.
MY PRAYERS WILL BE WITH YOU ALSO.

Bonnie and Randy Isley

February 19, 2010

My heart is so full of thoughts and prayers for your dear family. I can not begin to imagen what each of you have been through these last several days. Even though I do not personally know you, The Smiths are very dear friends of ours, and I just wanted to express our deepest sympathy. What beautiful comments that have been shared and written on Alex's behalf. The Obituary expressed so completely the love that you have for your son. I do know that one day you will be together again, and I pray that will help to bring you comfort at this most difficult time. May the Lord bless you and keep you till each of you meet again. Lovingly,

David McRae

February 18, 2010

Alex is one of the most impressive people I'll ever have the blessing to know. I know we'll all miss him dearly, and cherish the time he spent with us.

Sheena, Dan, Lewis and Rosie Kopman

February 18, 2010

Jeanne, Tom, Nate and Laura,
We are so very sorry and we are carrying you in our hearts.

Uncle Richard & Claire (Knowles)

February 18, 2010

Jeanne, Tom, Nate and Laura,
Our hearts are heavy in the loss of Alex. Our prayers and thoughts remain with you all throughout this most difficult time.

February 18, 2010

Dear Jeanne and Tom,

We were terribly saddened to learn of Alex's death. Please accept our sympathies and good wishes for the two of you, Nate, Laura and the rest of your families. We have read with interest and appreciation the thoughtful observations and comments about Alex and what he meant to all of you. We will be out of town on Saturday and, as a result, will not be able to attend the service in memory of Alex, but will be thinking about you.

Fondly,

Alan and Nancy Goldstein

Kerri Harrington

February 18, 2010

Jeanne, Tom, Nate and Laura,
The Oliverian School will forever be changed because of the time Alex spent here. He brought smiles to so many faces. His joy was infectious.
We will adore and cherish him forever.
Peace be with you in this difficult time.

Heidi Sloss

February 18, 2010

We can't believe your boy is not by your side anymore. Missing him and grieving for you.

All our love,
Heidi, David, Dakin & Kamala

February 18, 2010

Dear Jeanne , Tom, Nate and Laura--we are praying for all of you. Mildred and Jeff Severseike,(David, Ben, Elissa) St. Louis/St. Paul, MN

Cynthia Knowles Mott

February 18, 2010

Jeanne,Tom, Nate and Laura,
We are so sorry and have you in our thoughts and prayers each day.
Cynthia, Rob, Katelyn, Celeste,Robby

February 18, 2010

Dear Tom and Jeanne,
Danny shared with me the sad news about Alex, and I can only imagine how heartbroken you and the family are to have lost him all too soon. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Paul Bumbalough, Durham, NC

Judy and Jon Bruton

February 18, 2010

Dear Jeanne, Tom, Nate and Laura: We just heard and cannot believe that Alex is gone. Our hearts are heavy as we can only imagine your pain. Please know that we send our love, and wish that we could be with you this Saturday as you celebrate Alex's life.
With love,
Judy, Jon and Lucas

Amy Cottingham

February 18, 2010

I didn't know your son but as I read his obituary, I felt sadness for your family and a deep appreciation for the love of your son. My son is the same age as alex and attends college in St.Augustine. We haven't had the best relationship and at times have gone long periods without talking. I have now realized through your kind words tomorrow isn't a given. I will cherish my son and my time with him starting now. Thank you for sharing your families love for one another.

Heidi Dean

February 18, 2010

Tom, Jeanne, Nate and Laura,

My husband and I are sending all of your our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

Please take good care of yourselves, and each other.

Gary and Karen Woodward

February 18, 2010

Dear Tom, Jeanne, Nate, and Laura,

We are praying for you each, and remembering his short life.

Ken & Michelle Knowles

February 18, 2010

Jeanne, Tom, Nate and Laura
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry for your loss of Alex.

February 18, 2010

From the church family at Riverside Park United Methodist in Jacksonville. Please accept our deepest sympathy and know that our love and prayers are with you. We are thinking of you all at this time. God bless you and give you peace as only He can.

Chris and Christine Krehmeyer

February 17, 2010

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.

Clelia and Ray Bullard

February 17, 2010

There is no greater grief than being predeceased by one's child. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and other members of your family whom we know and love.

Sandy McGuire

February 17, 2010

My husband and I had the pleasure of meeting Alex for dinner one night back in August, along with the Chelsea and her parents. We had a nice dinner together and enjoyed talking with the young ones. Alex seemed to be a fun-loving guy and very attentive to Chelsea. I'm glad that Alex crossed our paths though briefly. In deepest sympathy,
Brian and Sandy McGuire from Lilburn, GA

February 17, 2010

Dear Tom, Jeanne, Nate and Laura -
You are all in our every prayer. May your love for one another and for dear Alex sustain you. We send our love to the special Townsend family.
Donna, Marty, Nick and Aaron Cargas
Washington, D.C.

February 17, 2010

Jeanne, Tom, Nate and Laura -- We are so sorry for the loss of your beloved Alex -- our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Bart and Tanya French and family (St. Louis, MO)

Keithie Knowles

February 17, 2010

Jeanne,Tom,Nate and Laura,
Know that I keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Letter in the mail; Edible Arrangement coming on Friday.
With Love, Aunt Keithie

Dixie Tenny

February 17, 2010

I loved Alex for the bright and original being he was. And I loved him for being such a wonderful friend to Paul. He will always be alive in my memory and my heart, lively and laughing and dear.

Roger Ecoff

February 17, 2010

May God's Grace and Mercy be sufficient for all your needs now and forever.

Dan Randant

February 17, 2010

Tom & Family,
My deepest condolences on your loss. I did not know Alex but if he was anything like his father he was a fine human being.

Knez Jakovac

February 17, 2010

Tom, Jeanne, Nate and Laura,
Alex was a free soul, had such an infectious nature and had such a good nature, easy to talk with, always open and , to me, seemed ageless.
I'll miss him and I pray for you and your wonderful family. I truly believe you'll see him again and that he is with you now,

Knez

Bob and Mary Jo Lee

February 17, 2010

Jeanne and Tom

We are thinking of you and your family in this difficult time. We will keep Alex and you all in our prayers.

Scott and Lua Wells

February 17, 2010

Our hearts go out to all of the fanily and friends who dearly miss Alex.

February 17, 2010

Saying our prayers for you.

The Ball Family, Jacksonville, Florida

February 17, 2010

Tom and Jeanne, Nate and Laura
Our hearts go out to you at this time of healing and may God hold you all under his umbrella of Grace. Our condolences to all of you and may that meteor keep going for all others to see and embrace.

Beth and Ray McAnallen

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