Alexandria, VA – The next time you ride on a VRE train or travel on Metro’s blue line, or travel on a byway free of ruts and potholes, you can thank Joe Alexander. The hardworking visionary and former supervisor for Lee District died Sunday, August 30, at the age of 90.
Joe Alexander was born and raised in Franconia. His father Milton served as the county court system’s Chief Magistrate and volunteer fire chief, and his mother Celia ran the post office in the family hardware store, both modeling a commitment to public service that would define Joe Alexander’s career.
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay praised Alexander, saying, “Nicknamed Pothole Joe, no level of constituent service was too small to rate a personal response. Over 32 years, with the help of scores of loyal citizen volunteers, Joe shepherded his district from un-regulated gravel pits into the vibrant planned communities we know today; most notably Kingstowne. He first brought unified water and sewer service then sidewalks and streetlights to neighborhoods that lacked the most basic services.”
Virginia State Senator Scott Surovell was saddened to learn of the passing of Joe Alexander this weekend. “Joe was a Fairfax County native who served on the Fairfax County Board from 1963 until 1995 and helped plan Lee District’s transformation. He created Huntley Meadows Park. Condolences to his wife of 64 years, his two daughters and extended family. He was a public servant to the end.”
Graveside funeral services will be held at 12 noon Thursday, September 3, at National Memorial Park-King David. Family and friends are invited to meet at National Funeral Home to process to the gravesite. The family requests no flowers, please.
