Joseph Franklin Alexander

Joseph Franklin Alexander, 60, died Monday, March 25, 2013 at his home. He was born June 28, 1952, in San Bernardino, CA, son of the late Lawrence Melvin Alexander and Margaret Duff Alexander. Joe was a graduate of Cal State at Long Beach, and he had worked as Superintendent of the waste water treatment plant in Damascus, VA for thirty years. He was an avid farmer and builder, known for many public service activities. Joe is perhaps best known for organizing the extensive petting zoo at the annual Washington County Fair, referred to as "Old MacDonald's." Over the span of three decades, he was the one you could find holding the "scariest" animals, helping people overcome their fears.

Joe is survived by his wife of forty years, Pamela Alexander; three daughters: Skye Alexander-Pickholtz of Deerfield Beach, FL, Nova (Will) Alexander-Collins of Petaluma, CA, and Hope (Dallas) Alexander-Hawkins of Abingdon; two grandchildren, Ariel Pickholtz and Alexis Pickholtz; and cousin Deborah Duff Simmons.

Joe's family would like to offer special thanks to Dr. Mark Simcox, Dr. Mel Heiman, and Hospice of Southwest Virginia.

Services for Joe will be held at 6:00 p.m. on June 21at Windy Hill Farm, located at 25499 Duff Lane, Abingdon, VA 24211. At Joe's request, this will be a celebration of life with stories, a potluck dinner, bonfire and music.

Those wishing to share memories and express support for the family may do by visiting www.farrisfuneralservice.com. The Alexander family is in the care of Farris Cremation and Funeral Center, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA 24210 (276-623-2700).