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Dearest Aikido Community,

After a long, courageous battle, having the spirit of a true warrior over these last many months in dealing with multiple infections and complications, Mary Alexander, wife of Lee Alexander, passed peacefully and painlessly August 9th in their home, surrounded by family and friends.

As Lee would often put it when discussing Aikido, it's the second best thing that's ever happened to him after his wife, Mary. And through Lee, Mary most definitely lived a life of beauty and adventure she would have never known without him.

Along with Lee, Mary is one of the very first charter members of Aikido of Red Bank. Though she hadn't practiced since our days at the United Methodist Church in Red Bank, she became a lifetime member of the dojo, earned the rank of 5th kyu and continued to renew her rank annually right through this current year.

Socially, my wife Rosemary and I have gotten to know Lee and Mary closely over the years, entertaining dinners out as well as in one another's homes fairly regularly, especially in celebrating occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. Each December over the holidays, we'd always made a point to get together outside of our own family gatherings - before and since our daughter, Mele was born - to enjoy a nice home cooked dinner and creative gift exchange.

They attended our wedding in Hawai'i in 2004 and had gotten to know each of our extended families as well. In fact, Mary and my mother are only a few months apart in age.

Mary was one of the kindest, most patient and even-keeled people I've known (especially around Lee's big personality and lifestyle!).

She will be greatly missed, though only in bodily form, as those who are ready to discard the vehicle of the body never truly leave us. And I know that we, Lee's Aikido family, will always be there for him when he needs us in this physical world.

Much love, Lee, and to all of you! 🙏❤
Jim Soviero

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From Lee Alexander:

It would be my great honor to have you join me in celebrating my wife Mary's beautiful life on Saturday, August 26 at John E. Day Funeral Home, 85 Riverside Ave. in Red Bank, NJ.

Viewing will be held from 3-4 PM, followed by memorial service from 4-5 PM. Afterward you are welcome to join us for repast reception at the restaurant B2, 141 Shrewsbury Ave. Red Bank. If you plan to attend the latter, please RSVP in the spreadsheet here.

And in lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to our second home and family, Aikido of Red Bank, PO Box 8895 Red Bank, NJ 07701 or the PayPal link here.

I want to try and express my deepest gratitude for the amazing outpouring of love and support I've gotten from you all. It's what has helped hold me together during this, the hardest time of my life.


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