Roll Call Tribute

De Lyla Alexander Spaid 

August 21, 1943 - November 26, 2024 

De Lyla Alexander Spaid was born and raised in northern Missouri, where her Midwest upbringing instilled in her strong values, a resilient work ethic, and an enduring appreciation for the simplicity of life. As a high school senior, she moved to Texas, eventually settling in Dallas, where she spent most of her adult life. Despite her many years in Texas, De Lyla always held her Midwest roots close to her heart.

De Lyla was a proud American and a woman of remarkable determination, much like her mother Lyla Lee (Derry) Alexander. Born during World War II while her father, Ross Alexander, Jr., served in the Army Air Corps, she developed a deep respect for service and dedication. After a successful 30-year career as a Human Resources Director for a major law firm, she earned her Master’s Degree at Texas A&M University, where she worked as a career counselor for the Corps of Cadets.

As the oldest child, in a family of seven D siblings, De Lyla’s greatest pride was her family, and she exemplified the spirit of a devoted military mother. She lived to see her only son, Wes, safely retire as a Colonel in the Marine Corps after a distinguished 30-year career and multiple deployments. This milestone brought her immense peace and fulfillment.

In her own words, De Lyla had a “wonderful life,” living each day without regret. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, wisdom, and humor, encouraging all who knew her to live authentically and embrace life’s joys. Her life lessons—don’t sweat the small stuff, always be honest and humble, keep your sense of humor, and love without conditions—will resonate forever.

In keeping with her practical and down-to-earth nature, De Lyla requested that her ashes not be placed in a "fancy" urn for display or interment. Instead, her remains will be lovingly spread near the farmland of her grandparents, Francis and Hazel Derry, in Princeton, Missouri—a tribute to her deeply cherished family heritage.

Her final wish was to hear one last joke from her sister, Dana, which brought a smile to her face:

"The farmer’s son didn’t study medicine... because he wanted to go into a different field.”

De Lyla is predeceased by her brothers, Doug and Dempsey. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Wes and Nicole; her beloved grandchildren, Kate, Jack, and Ross; her sister, Dana; and her brothers, Dwight, Drew, and Dulles. She is also lovingly remembered by sisters-in-law Chris, Simone, Twylla and Margo and a host of adoring nieces and nephews.

De Lyla left this world as she lived it—with laughter, love, and grace. Rest in peace, dear mom, G-mom, sister, aunt, and cherished friend.