Ernest Alexander was born on October 24, 1938, in Los Angeles, California, to Leona McGlory (deceased) and Ernest Alexander (deceased). He spent his early years in Southern California and attended San Diego High School, where he graduated in 1956. During his high school years, Ernest played football—an experience that likely contributed to his lifelong love for the San Diego Chargers.
After graduating, Ernest proudly served in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, he continued his education, earning an Associate of Arts in Electronics from San Diego City College. In 1975, he received a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from the University of La Verne in California. Ernest was also a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., San Diego Chapter, where he formed lasting bonds and friendships.
Ernest dedicated much of his professional life to public service. He was employed by the United States Naval Facilities Engineering Command in San Diego from 1959 until 1993, holding a variety of roles including Computer Programmer, Supervisory Computer Specialist, and Supervisory Management Analyst. After retiring from Navy Civil Service, Ernest moved to Arizona and joined the Arizona Department of Administration as a Project Manager, retiring from there in 1999. Throughout his career, he received numerous commendations and accolades in recognition of his skills, leadership, and many accomplishments.
Retirement did not slow him down. Ernest went on to work as a Greyhound bus driver, a substitute teacher, and a DJ. He was also well known for frequently entertaining friends and family at his home in Mesa, Arizona. Ernest truly loved to party with those he cared about, and one of his greatest joys was knowing that everyone around him was having a good time.
A passionate sports fan, Ernest especially loved football and proudly held season tickets to the San Diego Chargers games. He was also a world traveler who delighted in hosting friends and showcasing the beauty and culture of Arizona and California. Ernest was an active and long-standing member of the Desert Mashie Golf Club and the American Legion in Phoenix, Arizona, reflecting his strong sense of community and camaraderie.
Throughout his life, Ernest touched many hearts and created lasting memories that will be cherished forever. He was affectionately known as the “AWESOME MAN IN BLACK” and stood as a powerful example of resilience in the face of adversity. He endured the loss of his beloved mother, Leona, who passed away in February 1998, and the heartbreaking loss of his daughter, Tase, who passed away in August 2004. Despite these profound losses, he continued to live with joy, generosity, and strength.
Ernest is survived by his nephew, Carl Houchins (Marretta); his niece, Brenda Clark; his goddaughters, Veronica Mack Franklin, Charista Hooker, Chantavia Franklin, and Vivian Smith; and countless friends and family members whose lives he touched.
Ernest carried “RETIRED” business cards that read, “THIS IS MY CARD” on the front and his personal philosophy printed on the back—a philosophy that reflected how he lived his life:
“Remember the five simple rules to be happy:”
· Free your heart from hatred
· Free your mind from worries
· Live simply
· Give more
· Expect less
From his loving family and friends: “Goodbye is not forever. Goodbye is not the end. It simply means we’ll miss you until we meet again.”
Ernest Alexander’s legacy is one of service, joy, resilience, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.