Junior Alexander, age 72, of Iberia, passed away with his wife by his side, on Monday, April 8, 2013, at Phelps County Regional Medical Center in Rolla. He was born in Miller County on July 24, 1940, son of the late Melvin Andrew and Cora Arlene (Blankenship) Alexander. On September 26, 1987, at Alder Springs Church of rural Miller County, Junior married Melinda Lee Vaill, who survives at the home.

A life-long farmer raising cattle and horses, Junior enjoyed all things outdoors. He worked at the Olean Sale Barn for several years; and in his younger years he traveled to rodeos competing in bareback bronc and bull riding. His children loved to listen as he shared his experiences with them, teaching them all how to farm, hunt, fish, and garden.

Junior attended Dixon Church of Christ.

He is also survived by four children, Trinity Jean Ponder and husband Doug of Dixon, Calvin Edward Alexander of Dixon, Joseph Lee Alexander of Iberia, and Dustin Benjamin Alexander of Iberia; one brother, Edward Alexander and wife Laverda of Campbell; and two sisters, Donna Sisk and Wilbur of Blue Springs and Marie Kavanaugh and husband Hank of Ontario, Canada.

He was preceded in death by his father on November 12, 1950, his mother on June 13, 1993, one sister, Iris Dake on April 12, 2012, and three brothers, Winston Carl Alexander on July 2, 1953, Carlis Raymond Alexander on November 11, 1996, and Bobby Myrle Alexander on August 25, 2011.

Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 13, at Fancher-Rekus Funeral Home in Iberia. Don Thompson will officiate. Interment will be in Alder Springs Cemetery near Iberia.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, April 12, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Alder Springs Cemetery.