Mary L. Alexander, 84, of Grand Island died with dignity and grace in the arms of Jesus on Friday, May 8, 2015, at Edgewood Vista of Grand Island after a bravely fought battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. Pauls Lutheran Church in Grand Island. The Rev. Bill Pavuk will officiate. Burial will be in Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery. Apfel Funeral Home in Grand Island is in charge of the arrangements.

Mary Louise Alexander was born Aug. 8, 1930, in Hastings to Henry and Fannie (Janssen) Gartner. She grew up in Hansen and received her education in the area rural schools.

Mary was united in marriage to Donald R. Alexander on Aug. 4, 1950, at St. Pauls Lutheran Church. They made their home in Doniphan and later in Grand Island.

Mary worked from home doing sewing and ironing while raising her family. She later worked in food service for Lutheran Hospital and later with Grand Island Public Schools.

Mary had many interests. She enjoyed music, played piano by ear and was self-taught on guitar. She was accomplished at crocheting and sewing. She and Don enjoyed camping, traveling on their motorcycle and dancing at the Platt Duetsche and Eagles. They enjoyed the winter months at South Padre Island, Texas. Mary also enjoyed walking and picking up cans along the way. She cherished the time she spent with her family, especially during the holidays.

She was a member of St. Pauls Lutheran Church.

Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Terri and Jim Perkins of Grand Island; two sons and daughters-in-law, Ron and Winnie Alexander of Grand Island, and Brad and Lori Alexander of Plattsmouth; one brother and sister-in-law, Donald and Julie Gartner of Hansen; one sister, Fannie Hill of Hastings; nine grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald, on June 27, 2002, and 13 brothers and sisters.

Mary’s family wishes to thank all of the staff of Edgewood Vista for the loving care she received while she resided there.