ARCHIE RAY ALEXANDER

December 10, 1957 – April 1, 2026

It is with profound sorrow and a heart full of cherished memories that we announce the passing of Archie Ray Alexander, a beacon of light, love, and unwavering faith, who left this world on April 1, 2026, in Dallas. Born and raised in Dallas, Archie’s journey was one marked by passion, dedication, and a relentless commitment to his family, his faith, and his community.

Archie was much more than a man who lived; he was a man who inspired. From his early days at Lincoln High School, class of 1976, through his academic pursuits at Grambling State University, D. Edwin Johnson, and Dallas Baptist College, Archie cultivated a foundation of knowledge and spiritual strength that propelled him into a life of service. His careers as a pastor and in retail sales were reflective of his diverse talents and his boundless desire to connect with people from all walks of life.

His personality radiated warmth—a loving father, passionate and funny, outgoing and kindhearted, he was a god-fearing man whose life was steeped in discipline and dedication. Family was his sanctuary; he was family-oriented, a hard worker, and above all, welcoming to those he met along the way. Wherever he went, he did not meet a stranger; instead, he found friends and left a trail of smiles, embodying the spirit of a beam of light whose brightness could never be dimmed.

Archie’s proudest accomplishments were found first in his beloved wife, Rita Alexander, and their family—an enduring testament to his love and devotion. He treasured his relationship with God deeply, dedicating his life to building a church and bringing souls to Christ through outreach ministry and faith leadership. He was the pastor of Greater Nile Missionary Baptist Church Beyond his spiritual works, Archie found joy in reading, football and basketball, and being an avid supporter of the San Francisco 49ers, passions that grounded his vibrant, joyful spirit.

He leaves to celebrate and honor his memory a loving family: his devoted wife Rita Alexander; daughters Angela Atkins (Desmond), Senetra Hall, and Andrea Murphy (Maurice); sons Kentrail Elder (Kimberly), Quinton Alexander (Precious), and Archie Beason (Ketra); son-in-love Terrance Cosby and Jimmy Rhoe; as well as sixteen grandchildren and several great-grandchildren who will carry his legacy forward. Archie is also mourned by his nephew Eric McGary (Damita) and a host of other family members and friends who knew him as the kind, welcoming man he was.

He is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Nella Clark, and his sister, Brenda Simpson, whose memories he carried with him always.

The community is invited to honor Archie’s remarkable life with a viewing held on April 10, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Golden Gate Funeral Home, 4155 S R. L. Thornton Fwy, Dallas, TX 75224. That same evening, a prayer service will commence at 7:00 p.m. at New Leaf Missionary Baptist Church, located at 5044 Veterans Drive, Dallas, TX 75241. The celebration of his life through the funeral service will take place the following day, April 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at New Leaf Missionary Baptist Church.

As we gather to remember Archie Ray Alexander, we reflect on a life beautifully lived—a testament to unwavering faith, extraordinary kindness, and the enduring power of family. He leaves behind a world better than he found it, his light undimmed, forever shining in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know him.