Alex, the person

“Alex is a free spirit and a gentle soul.”
Alex’s Kindergarten Teacher, 1994
Written as part of her glowing year end report

While these words were written about Alex when she was only five, they aptly describe who she was at 18. Alex embraced life; she loved it, and she loved those in it. Her laugh was deep and contagious, sometimes mischievous, always generous.

Alex, the equestrian

“I have trained Alex since she was ten, and she is the student of a lifetime… Alex is an excellent rider, a fierce competitor yet the quintessential teammate. In all the time I have known Alex, I have never seen her display anything but great sportsmanship-like conduct—she simply doesn’t have it in her to gloat, complain, sulk, or get angry. She has nerves of steel and emanates joy and enthusiasm (never tears nor fears) at every event. She is talented, giving, loyal, and trustworthy. She has many friends and a following of young fans.”

Alex’s Equestrian Trainer, 1998-2007
Written in his letter of recommendation for Alex, 2007

Alex, the student

“Alex submitted work I expect of my seniors, not of my freshman. I give the students options for the authors whose work they could evaluate. Alex chose the very complex works of Emerson. Upon reading her profound essays, I found myself having to reread his passages. Alex got it.”

Alex’s St. Andrews Presbyterian College Professor, 2008
In his eulogy to Alex

Alex, the friend

“You are my sunshine, my only sunshine, you make me happy when skies are grey.”
Alex’s Best Friend, 1998 until forever

Alex had many dear friends. She loved them with all her heart. She sang and danced for them—every cheesy pop song there was; she cheered them up and cheered them on.

Alex, the cousin

“Cousin isn’t a strong enough word for what we are. We’re more like sisters who never fight. I know—We’re scuzzes!”

Alex’s Scuzz, circa 1995

Alex had many cousins. They meant the world to her. She was in her glory when she was with them, and Alex in her glory was something to behold. They were part of her, and she them.

Alex, the sister

“Ayah, Ayah”
Zeke, 1995 (Trying to say “Alex” at 15 months)

He worshipped her. She often admitted he was the coolest kid ever, even if his arrival dethroned her. (His friends thought she was hot.)

Alex, the daughter

The most beautiful, loving, vivacious, and talented daughter any parent was ever blessed with.

Jane and George, Always