Richard Lee Alexander

Richard Lee Alexander, 61, of Norman ran into the arms of Jesus on April 23, 2014 after a long illness. Rick was born in Moline, Illinois on February 8, 1953. He attended Western High School in Las Vegas, Nevada and graduated in 1971 where he played football, wrestled, and participated in track. He moved to Oklahoma for college where he went on to play football for Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College in Miami, Oklahoma. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Central State University in 1977. In 1976, he met his beloved wife, Peggy Wright, on a blind date. They married later that year. Rick loved sports and was an avid Oklahoma Football and Basketball fan. He was recently inducted into the OU Quarter Century Club for his steadfast support to the University of Oklahoma. He loved to be called "Coach" by his grandchildren. Rick spent many years of his life coaching, including years spent in the Putnam City School District where he taught history and coached football, wrestling, and track. He also enjoyed many years coaching a men's softball team for First Baptist Church of Norman, where he was a member. Some of his favorite coaching adventures were those spent in little league with his daughters. In 1980, Rick and his family moved to Norman where he began working for his father-in-law's family business, Wright's IGA. He managed the grocery store on North Porter until he retired after a stroke in 2012. His employees loved him. His compassionate heart was always willing to help the next person in need and he offered great support to those he employed. Even after his retirement, his loyal employees continue to show their support. The family would like to recognize and express sincere gratitude to the many individuals at Norman Regional Hospital and Grace Living Center who provided care with their hands, as well as their hearts. Rick is survived by his wife of 37 years, Peggy Alexander of Norman; two daughters and their husbands, Heather and Michael Murphy of Norman and Amy and Tim Arnold of Norman; four grandchildren, Isabella Murphy, Patrick Murphy, Tinsley Joy Arnold, and Wristen Ryan Arnold; mother, Lois Alexander of Sierra Vista, AZ; sister, Zoe Taylor of Sierra Vista, AZ; Sister-in-law, Diana Wilson and husband Tom of Norman; Brother-in-law, Larry Wright and wife Lori of Norman, and a host of nieces, nephews, other family members, friends, and treasured employees. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Fremont Alexander; Father and Mother-in-law, Coy and Louella Wright.To celebrate the life of this cherished man services will be held at New Life Bible Church in Norman at 1:00 P.M. on Tuesday, April 29, 2014. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made out to Upward Basketball, First Baptist Church, 211 W. Comanche St. Norman, OK, 73069. Rick will be laid to rest at Hillside Cemetery in Purcell. Friends may view Rick at Wilson-Little Funeral Home in Purcell until day of services. Send online condolences at wilsonlittle.com. Rick's family request that you wear causal O.U. game day attire at his services.

Richard Lee Alexander

February 8, 1953 - April 23, 2014