Millie Jean Alexander, age 93, of Willard, Missouri, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 in Ash Grove , Missouri.

Millie was born April 16, 1932 the daughter of Virgie and Fred Marlin. Millie was one of 11 siblings.

Millie was baptized on October 31, 1945, at Central Assembly of God in Springfield, Missouri , and was a long time member of Willard First Baptist Church, Willard, Missouri. Her faith was the foundation of her life and a steady source of comfort and strength. Faith that one day she will be united with her children whom she had tragically lost.

She lived a full and beautiful life rooted in faith, family and hard work. She graduated High School in 1950 from Springfield Senior High in Springfield ,Missouri. Over the years , she was employed by several businesses , including Woolworth 5&10, Lilly Tulip, Russell Stover ,Willard School Cafeterias and as a stay at home wife and mom. She took pride in all that she did and found joy in caring for others.

A talented crafter, Millie created beautiful crochet pieces that will be cherished by those that receive them. Over the years she enjoyed collecting kewpie dolls, McDonalds toys, spoons and thimbles just to name a few. She was also an excellent golfer who enjoyed traveling, listening to blue grass, gospel and eating out with her family. More than anything , she loved spending time with her loved ones -especially watching her Grandson Brady in Taekwondo. Brady was her pride and joy. She was lovingly known as "Granny" to Brady and many that grew to know and love her. A name that reflected her warmth, kindness , and the deep love she had for those around her.

Millie is survived by her daughter, Nicole Bacon and husband, Brad; one son, Wesley Phillips Jr; two grandsons, Nicolas "Brady" Bacon and Jason Phillip; one great-grandson, Logan Phillips; one great-great-granddaughter, River Phillips and many nieces, nephews, other loved ones and a special neighbor and friend.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Virgie and Fred Marlin; husband, Wesley Phillips Sr; her children, Pamela and Javen Phillips; siblings, Mazie Hargis, Virginia Brooks, Walter Marlin, Fon Marlin, Margaret Clemens, Bettie Stokes, Mary Parker, Geraldine Marlin, Paul Marlin and David Marlin.  Her husband, William "Woody" Alexander and her constant furry companions, Buttercup and Mustang.

Millie will be remembered for her caring heart, loving spirit, resilience, creativity and her beautiful smile. She brought warmth,  laughter,  and love to everyone around her. Her family and friends will forever treasure the memories, love and strength she shared with us all.

In lieu of flowers , the family is requesting that donations be made to the Ash Grove Healthcare facility and Rehabilitation Center Memory Care Unit, Ash Grove ,Missouri www.citizensmemorial.com/about/giving/cmh-foundation-donation.html

Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at Klingner Cope Funeral Home Rivermonte Chapel, 4500 S. Lone Pine Ave. Springfield, MO 65804. Graveside service will be at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at Springfield National Cemetery, 1702 E. Seminole St. Springfield, MO 65804 with Pastor Frank Childers officiating.