Myra Alexander, 80

FOXBORO, MASS. – Myra Alexander of Foxboro, formerly of Cranston, died July 30 at home surrounded by her family.

Born in the Bronx, New York, she grew up in Elmont, Long Island. Myra, was the loving daughter of the late Dave and Etta (Chamlin) Young and a loving sister to her brother, the late Michael Young.

Myra was the beloved wife of David Alexander, with whom she shared over 60 years of marriage. She was a devoted mother to Janet Alexander, Marcy Harris and Gary Alexander. She was the cherished grandmother of Ike, Ethan, Libby, Dylan and Gideon (G.G.). She also leaves behind an adored canine companion, her Chihuahua, Bianca.   She will be missed and remembered by beloved family members across this country and Israel, and dear friends, many of whom are from her college days.

Myra received a bachelor’s degree in education from Queens College and enjoyed her years teaching in elementary school in Connecticut. After raising her children, she continued her education and earned a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from Assumption College. She was a dedicated social worker for the state of Rhode Island for 20 years.

Myra deeply loved her grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them, playing games with them and teaching them how to bake chocolate chip cookies. She was an avid reader who was passionate about the no kill animal rescue movement. She enjoyed traveling to new places.

Myra fought lung cancer for more than 14 years, before succumbing to the disease. Her family is most grateful to the staff at Dana Farber Cancer Center, especially the compassion and care of Myra's oncologist Dr. Michael Rabin that allowed her family to enjoy many years with her, despite her diagnosis. Her family is also grateful to the staff at Old Colony Hospice, especially her nurse Jess and personal attendant Erica whose compassion, love and kindness allowed Myra to remain comfortable at home during her last days.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in her memory may be made to organizations Myra supported, including Best Friends Animal Society at www.bestfriends.org or Dana Farber Cancer Center www.dana-farber.org.