Kelly Alexander, a notable Charlotte native and lifelong advocate for civil rights, has died.
According to WBTV, Charlotte has lost a cornerstone of its community with the passing of Kelly Alexander.
Alexander, a lifelong resident, first made his mark as a student at West Charlotte High School before embarking on a multi-faceted career deeply embedded in both local business and politics.
With his brother, he led Alexander Funeral Homes, Inc., Mecklenburg County's oldest African-American-owned business. This establishment, nearing its 100th anniversary, symbolizes the enduring legacy of the Alexander family in Charlotte.
In 2008, Kelly Alexander was elected to the North Carolina House District 107. His tenure in the state legislature was marked by a passionate commitment to equity and community service. Over his years of service, he also held influential positions on several boards, including the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Planning Commission and the NC Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission. His leadership extended to the NAACP, where he was a former president of the North Carolina chapter.
Councilman Malcolm Graham spoke of Alexander:
"Kelly Alexander's voice in the legislature was a powerful force against injustice. His advocacy reached beyond racial and economic lines, ensuring a diverse community was supported and heard."
Alexander's impact on local governance and civil rights was immeasurable. Besides his political contributions, he shared his knowledge as an educator, teaching classes at multiple educational institutions throughout Charlotte.
Kelly Alexander's commitment to civil rights was a family legacy. His father was a prominent figure in the NAACP, and his brother broke barriers as the first African-American elected to the Charlotte City Council. Kelly Alexander upheld and expanded this legacy through both advocacy and education, becoming a local icon of leadership and community advancement.
In recognition of his significant contributions, Alexander was honored with three awards from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned his B.A. in political science and later an M.P.A.
Details of Alexander's funeral are still forthcoming. The community awaits a chance to honor his memory and contributions formally.
The death of Kelly Alexander marks the end of an era for Charlotte; a city enriched by his tireless dedication to civil rights and community service. He was a dedicated servant who left an indelible mark on the fabric of North Carolina politics and civil advocacy.
Residents and colleagues remember him as more than a politician. They see Alexander as a steadfast friend and advocate who stood firm in his convictions and commitment to justice and equality. His influence will resonate through the many lives he touched and the substantial civic improvements he spearheaded throughout his career.
In this moment of reflection, the community holds close to the values Kelly Alexander championed and continues to strive towards the ideals he set.
