Susan Elizabeth Alexander

Susan Inez Elizabeth Alexander (Stanifer), born November 11, 1951, in St. Marys Hospital, Knoxville, TN, to James Edward Stanifer and Elizabeth Ora Stanifer (Carr) completed her earthly journey on August 26, 2025, in her home in Knoxville after a swift yet courageous battle with cancer. Susan is remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, adoring grandmother, talented artist, and above all, a woman whose life radiated Christ-like love, faith, and boundless enthusiasm for those around her. Those who knew her often described her as overflowing with energy, humor, and compassion. She never met a stranger and delighted in engaging with people from all walks of life, radiating warmth and genuine curiosity. From an early age, Susan showed remarkable passion and intelligence. She graduated as valedictorian from LaFollette High School at just 16 years old, already a poised young woman with a love for music, dance, and theater. Her childhood was graced by the loving bond she shared with her brother, Jim, who remained her protector and companion. Susan's love for music blossomed during these years; she never heard a hymn she didn’t love, and she would carry this musical spirit throughout her life. At the University of Tennessee, Susan thrived—becoming an SAE little sister and performing in many theater productions. It was there, while performing in The Sound of Music with the Hunter Hills Theater group, that she met the father of her children, Robert Carl Lueking, II. Their partnership was rooted in faith and the ongoing pursuit of God, whether that be in Bible studies, one of their favorites being led by Ken Boa at the beginning of his ministry or through their involvement in Campus Crusade for Christ. When they moved to Mississippi, where her husband attended Seminary at Reformed Theology, she dove deeply into theological studies alongside her husband often sitting in on classes taught by renowned scholars like R.C. Sprouls. After earning her Bachelor of Science in 1972 and marrying in 1973, Susan wore many hats with grace and zeal. She was always learning, growing, and embarking on new adventures. An educator at heart, Susan always poured her time and talent into others. From her work as a teacher’s aide in Coalfield, TN, to directing Doyle High School and church theater productions, to her tenure as the director of children’s choir, plays, and vacation bible schools at East Ridge Presbyterian Church in Chattanooga, she impacted countless young lives. Later, professionally, Susan worked as a pharmaceutical sales representative for many years, where a providential encounter reunited her with Dr. Pierce Cooper Alexander—Who at that time was an Internist for St. Mary’s, the very same place she was born. He had been an SAE while they were both at UT and knew each other since college. Their romance blossomed into a joyful marriage in May 2002. Their deep, loving partnership was crowned by shared adventures—whether running, walking their furry children, or traveling together to Captiva Island or to attend medical conferences, especially to Kiawah Island and Billy Graham’s The Cove, where medicine and faith intersected for the annual Prescription for Renewal conference hosted by the World Medical Mission (a ministry of Samaritain’s Purse). In recent years, however, the couple had poured their hearts into building their dream home together, a sanctuary infused with scripture and the love of Christ; a true haven that reflected Christ’s enduring presence. She also dedicated herself to helping raise her first grandson Joshua so that his mother could complete Nursing school and work long shifts. It was with the same nurturing spirit she had raised her own children—ensuring education in music, scouting, sports, and above all, kindness, that helped produce a well rounded young man who is currently serving overseas as a Marine. She never missed a band recital, sporting events, boy scout ceremony, or his Boot camp graduation. She was so very Proud of all her children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed spending time caring for her golden retrievers and great pyrenees, whose faithful companionship matched her own loyal spirit. She was playful, whimsical, and deeply engaged—hosting game nights on holidays or when together; enveloping every gathering in laughter and love. She enjoyed the simple pleasures of togetherness. Susan’s compassionate heart shone in her care for others; she viewed her life as a vessel for faith, hope, and love. She spent a good portion of every morning in the Word and praying fervently for others. Her faith truly was the center of her world. She delighted in joining her husband in their close-knit Sunday school class and worshiping with others in church. Susan is survived by her cherished husband, Dr. Pierce Cooper Alexander; her beloved children, Robert Carl Lueking III and the mother of his children Lisa Zhu, Bradley James Lueking, Kristin S. Lueking-Tarrants, and son-in-law Gregory A. Tarrants. Her dear grandsons, Joshua Christian Lueking, Forest Zhu, and Clemens Zhu. Brother Jim Stanifer and sister-in-law Shirley Stanifer as well as several beloved nieces and nephews. She is remembered by all who knew her for her dazzling smile, spunky spirit, and unyielding devotion to her Lord and family. A service celebrating Susan’s life will be held at Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church Chapel on Wednesday, September 3rd at 3:00 p.m., with the receiving of friends to follow in the adjoining welcome center. All are invited to honor her joyous life and unshakeable faith. Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms... "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:1–7) Susan’s legacy will forever inspire all who knew her, through her music, faith, and boundless compassion; to live with love, faith, and joyful abandon for the Lord. Her song on earth may have ended, but the music of her life echoes in the hearts of all she knew.

Tributes

Susan Elizabeth Alexander

November 11, 1951 - August 26, 2025