Henrietta Alexander Obituary

Henrietta Marie Alexander passed away peacefully at her home in the Bronx on January 19, 2026.

She was born on January 27, 1937, on the Caribbean island of Dominica, West Indies, to Beatrice Lloyd and Jake Joseph. She was the ninth of eleven children.

In 1961, as part of the Windrush Generation, Henrietta emigrated to London, England, where she contributed to rebuilding post-war Britain. During her time there, she worked as a bookmaker and later at the restaurant in the renowned Harrods Department Store.

In 1963, she married James Alexander, and together they were blessed with three daughters: Jennifer, Marina, and Arlene.

In 1972, the family immigrated to the United States, where Henrietta continued her life of dedication and sacrifice. She worked tirelessly as a Home Health Aide to ensure her daughters were well educated and raised in a stable, loving environment. She taught them the value of education, the love and support of family, and above all else, trust in God.

Henrietta was known for her generous spirit and her love of cooking. Her famous fried chicken, homemade mastiff bread, Saturday big pot of soup, Christmas black cake, and sorrel were shared freely with all who entered her home. She gave selflessly and would truly give the shirt off her back.

A devoted member of St. Brendan's Church, Henrietta faithfully prayed the rosary daily and lived her life rooted in faith. She was predeceased by her beloved nephew, Henry Johnson, her son-in-law Bandele Ade, and her cherished sister-friend Lena Mitchell.

She will be deeply missed by her devoted husband of 62 years, James Alexander; her daughters, Jennifer Alexander-Ade, Marina Alexander, and Arlene Alexander-Lestrade; her granddaughter, Amber Ade; her grandsons, Marcus Ade and Tyler Alexander; her beloved nieces, Julietta Ernest and Carmen Martin; her only surviving sibling, Lorna Ernest; her nephew Christopher Harry, her grand-nephews, Husani and Jelani Johnson; and a host of relatives and friends too numerous to mention.

May the soul of our dearly departed Henrietta Marie Alexander rest in eternal peace.