James Alvin Alexander of Rockford departed this earthly life April 8, 2023. He was born November 11, 1944 in Chidester, Arkansas the son of King and Maggie Alexander. James lived in Rockford since 1963 coming from Chidester. He was employed as a machine operator by Woodward Governor, later to be employed by Swedish American Hospital as a Transporter many years. James was a member of Gomez Chapel A.M.E. Church, where he attended bible study. He graduated from Pleasant Hill High School.

James leaves to cherish many loving memories, his son, Andra "Bud" (Dawn) Roberson; grand daughter Sakiniah Roberson; bonus grandchildren, Loren, Rashoud and Ryan Gayden; seven great grandchildren; a host of other relatives and friends including special cousin/sister, Odessa Gulley and special niece Carlise Alexander. He was predeceased by his parents; five sisters; Udell Sockwell, Idell Shaver, Claudia Neal, Bennie Peterson and Ema Jean Alexander;  two brothers; Samuel Alexander and Lee Edward Alexander.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 15, 2023 at Gomez Chapel A.M.E. Church 1509 Michigan Ave. Burial in Cedar Bluff Cemetery. Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.