Alex W. Busséy

Alex W. Busséy, father, brother, poet, and longtime public servant, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, at the age of 94.

Born August 6, 1931, in Augusta, Georgia, to Alex W. Bussey, Sr. and Mattie L. Phillips, Alex moved to New York City in the 1940s to live with his older brother Leon and pursue greater educational opportunities.   He went on to earn bachelor’s degrees in English, Speech, and Drama from Catholic University of America, with graduate work in Public Administration.

Alex proudly served his country for two years as a cryptographer in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He was married to Jacqueline M. Varner from 1956 until her passing in 2023, their loving union lasting nearly 67 years.

His professional career was spent largely with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, where he managed the Harlem office in the 1960s and later served as Assistant Regional Commissioner for New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Puerto Rico. At his retirement, he received honors from President Bill Clinton in recognition of his distinguished service.

After retirement, Alex and Jacqueline embraced their shared love of travel, visiting more than 80 countries together.

Beyond his professional and family life, Alex was a man of deep creativity and curiosity. He published six volumes of poetry, was an avid reader and film enthusiast, and surrounded himself with music. He also had a remarkable green thumb: his den overflowed with plants, and each spring and summer his roses, azaleas, irises, and tulips brought beauty to his home and garden.

Alex is survived by his children, Bryan and Jacqui Michelle; his daughter-in-law Gayle; his siblings, Naomi and Ronald; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

A man of quiet generosity, Alex supported many causes throughout his life.  Some close to his heart:

American Cancer Society- cancer.org

American Parkinson's Disease Assoc (PFLAG) - pflag.org

Southwest Indian Foundation (southwestindian.com)

St. Labre Indian School (stlabre.org)

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