Jacqueline S. Alexander

UNION SPRINGS, NY -- Jacqueline S. Alexander died peacefully at age 95 on February 10, 2021 at Matthew House in Auburn, New York with family by her side. Born July 21, 1925 in Saratoga Springs, New York, Jackie was the daughter of the late Kenneth W. Smead, Sr. and Catharine Pulver Smead.

She was a graduate of the New York State College for Teachers. Upon graduation, Jackie taught languages at Sherwood Central School. There she met her late husband Harold E. Alexander, with whom she enjoyed 60 years of marriage, and embarked on life as a farm wife, mother and so much more. For many years, Jackie was a substitute teacher at Southern Cayuga Central School. She was also a 4-H leader, a distinguished member of the Order of the Eastern Star, a Board of Elections inspector, a member of the Southern Cayuga Garden Club, Southern Cayuga Book Club, Cayuga County Retired Teachers’ Association, Roundabout Club and a 70-year member of the Scipioville Presbyterian Church, serving in a variety of leadership roles.

Jackie was a voracious reader and had many friends of all ages. She enjoyed traveling, swimming, fondue, birdwatching, a good Yankee swap, a glass of wine and family gatherings. She lived a long, faithful life.

Jackie is survived by her children, Kristin A. Lewis (Rick Searles) of Ithaca, Craig S. Alexander (Donna) of Mendon and Marnie A. Fessenden (Daniel) of Union Springs and her beloved grandchildren, Madeleine Fessenden, Mitchell Fessenden, Bradley Alexander and Brian Alexander. She is also survived by her sister Tamara (Roland) Plumb, brother Jonathan T. Smead, sisters-in-law Rosemary Smead and Marilyn John along with numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter Wendy, son-in-law Ronald Lewis and siblings, Kenneth W. Smead, Jr, Michael Smead, Jill P. Smead and Judith Smead.

There will be a memorial service at 1PM on Sunday, July 18, 2021 at Scipioville Presbyterian Church, 3428 34B, Scipio Center, NY 13147. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Scipioville Presbyterian Church or Matthew House 43 Metcalf Dr. Auburn, NY 13021.

Shakelton Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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