Markel... R E M E M B E R I N G
Markel DeWayne Alexander was born on December 30, 1969, to Margaret Gilland and Clifford Alexander in Memphis, Tennessee. From infancy, he possessed a smile and personality that made him loveable to all who were blessed to know him. It was obvious that God planned to use this young man to touch and inspire others…which he did for fifty glorious years. As a proud Mustang at East High School, Markel was an active member of the track team and he held the distinct title of “Best Dressed” in his class. Throughout his life, he was a connoisseur of fashion with a unique gift for coordinating colors and textures. No matter the occasion, he would arrive with a style and flair that came second to none! He continued his education by attending LeMoyne-Owen College, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Humanities in December of 2008. He used his gifts of leadership and helping others as an employee of Shelby County Schools while serving the faculty, students, and parents of Dunbar Elementary School with excellence. Many have been impacted by his exceptional style, his willingness to help others, and the bright smile that he often used to touch the world! Among his other gifts, Markel was also a comedian in his own right. In any situation, he could easily create a laughable moment with his incredible sense of humor. He was a faithful caregiver to relatives and friends in times of sickness, and a devoted son who looked after his mother in the most loving way. Being brought up in church, He accepted Christ early in life and served Him through the gift of music. He united with the Greater Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church in 1977, and served as one of its first music ministry leaders for many years. As a gifted choir director and vocalist, Markel was not ashamed to praise God! His character and leadership in music ministry helped to enhance and develop the gifts of others and opened several doors for him
within the Gospel music industry. Among his many musical affiliations, Markel was a founding member of the Voices of Binghampton, a long-time member of Pamela Armour & the Memphis Shop, Minister Shawn Jones & God’s Chosen Chorale, and Pastor Josh Bracy & Power Anointed. In 2010, he united with Manifesting Life Ministries under the leadership of Pastor Sherri Livingston, where he sang with the worship ensemble, Manifesting Praise. Throughout his life, he performed with several artists on various recordings, awards shows, and television broadcasts. He was often called upon to share his gifts, which he always did with a smile. No matter where his musical journey took him, the Voices of Greater Pleasant Hill remained near and dear to his heart and he continued to honor “home” by serving that music ministry throughout his life. With his beautiful tenor voice and his passion for music excellence, Markel took his place in the Heavenly choir on Sunday, September 6, 2020. He was preceded in death by his father, Clifford Alexander; his maternal grandparents, Uris & Era Gilland; his paternal grandmother, Elnora Alexander, and several aunts and uncles whom he loved and respected immeasurably. To cherish his memory, he leaves his dear mother, Margaret Gilland; his brother and best friend, Marlon (Tracee) Alexander; one nephew, Chadd Alexander; five aunts, five uncles, a beloved godsister, Gayle Williams-Weston; and a host of cousins, other relatives and friends who will cherish his legacy forever.
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. 4And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.” (John 14:1-4, KJV)
Celebration of Life
Prelude . . . . . . . . . . . .The Markel Alexander Celebration Chorale Under the Direction of Pamela Armour & Pastor Josh Bracy Procession. . . . . . . . . . The Family of Markel DeWayne Alexander Scripture Reading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Minister Michael Taylor Prayer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pastor Roscoe Perry Greater New Vineyard Baptist Church Celebration in Song. . . . . . . .Pamela Armour & the Memphis Shop “MEMORIES OF MARKEL” Mr. Herman L. Dickey, Voices of Greater Pleasant Hill Mr. Brian Ingram, Principal of Dunbar Elementary School Elder Anthony E. Turner, Memphis Gospel Music Community Solo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Psalmist Michael Hawkins Acknowledgments & Resolutions. . . . . . . . .Sister Sandra D. Harris Words of Comfort. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pastor Sherri Livingston Manifesting Life Outreach Ministries, Int’l Celebration in Song. . . . . . . . . .Pastor Josh Bracy & Power Anointed The Eulogy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pastor Edrin L. Alexander Recessional. . . . . . . . . The Family of Markel DeWayne Alexander
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~ There will be no viewing of the remains following the eulogy. ~
Acknowledgment
For comforting us in sadness, for lifting us in prayer; for warm hugs and tokens of love, or for simply being there; we extend our heartfelt thanks to you with a love that shall never cease. May God reward you abundantly and continue to give us peace. The family of Markel D. Alexander wishes to express our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love that we have received. Though our hearts are hurting, we are comforted by your thoughtfulness, and we ask for your continued prayers for the days ahead.
Active Pallbearers
Michael Hawkins Carlos Sargent
VonRico Nelson Timothy Owens
Michael Taylor Demetrius Bishop
Honorary Pallbearers
The Voices of Greater Pleasant Hill Pamela Armour & the Memphis Shop Pastor Josh Bracy & Power Anointed
Interment
Forrest Hill Cemetery- South 2545 Holmes Road • Memphis, Tennessee 38118
Services Entrusted To
N. H. Owens & Sons Funeral Home 428 Scott Street • Memphis, TN 38112 • (901) 324-2116 Program Design by Precious Memories Graphics & More, (901) 257-9124.