Terry Alexander

Terry "Poppy" Alexander

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Terry Alexander, affectionately known to all as "Poppy." Passed at 78 years old, of Hurley, NY, on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie, NY. He was born on May 25, 1947 in Glenford, NY, son of the late Lester and Mary Helen (Jones) Alexander.

He is survived by his loving companion of 46 years, Fran Ellsworth of Hurley, two sons, Zach Ellsworth of Kingston and Jay Ellsworth of Kingston, 6 grandchildren, and 1 great grandchild. Also surviving are Donna VanKleeck and her husband Ralph, Josie Churchwell and her husband Frank, and Cindy Genther.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his brothers, Frank, Billy, Tommy, and Jimmy, and his sisters, Kay and Evelyn.

In a turn of events, Terry's beloved older brother Paul “Dean” Alexander passed the next morning. Paul “Dean” had visited Poppy in the hospital the previous night to say his goodbyes, and as fate would have it, they embarked on their final journey to heaven together. In a testament to their lifelong bond, visitation and funeral services will be held together, just as they would have wished.

Terry departed this life, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family and community.

Born with a heart of gold, Terry was truly the kindest person you could ever meet. He possessed a rare and cherished quality: he genuinely listened. Anyone who spoke with Terry felt heard and valued, a testament to his compassionate nature. He was a man who embodied selflessness, always willing to give everything he had without a second thought for himself.

Terry proudly served his country in the Navy during the Vietnam War. Upon his return, he dedicated much of his time to his passion for baseball, coaching in the Little League for many years. He shared his love of the game with his two sons. fostering a love for the sport that ran deep in his family. Even in his final days, he could be found cheering on his sons from the sidelines.

Beyond the ball field, Terry had a profound love for racing. From the roar of stock cars to the thrill of NASCAR and the excitement of dirt track racing, he enjoyed it all. However, above all his interests, Terry's greatest joy came from spending time with his beloved family and friends.

Terry and his lifelong partner, Fran, or better known as "Nanny," shared a special bond forged over daily matches on the Wii. They were an unbeatable duo, whether it was Wii Sports bowling, golf, or any other game in between. The Wii kept them a competitive and fun-loving couple, always ready for family to join in on the action.

He was an amazing man, a devoted dad, a loving companion, a cherished grandfather, and a proud great-grandfather. Terry "Poppy" Alexander will be truly missed by many. His gentle spirit, generous heart, and loving presence touched countless lives, and his memory will forever be a guiding light for those who knew him.