Bio of Jackie Ellis Alexander by Landon Ketterman
Jackie Ellis Alexander was born on February 25, 1946, to Mr. Ellis and Mrs. Mary Alexander. The family lived in the quaint, unincorporated town of Baskett, located in Henderson County, Kentucky. Jackie was the middle child of three, having a 5-years-older brother — Charles “Speedy” and a 5-years-younger sister — Carolyn “Kelly”. Growing up in Baskett Jackie was often referred to by his nicknames, Cracker Jack and/or Cotton Top, because of the very light-colored hair he was born with. Early memories, at the ages of 4-5, included times of mischief shared with his buddy Haddie Norman. Their days would include such plans as finding a remote area on their parents’ properties that allowed a clear view of the local school bus on the county road. As soon as the bus passed directly below them, both boys would hurl stones towards the vehicle, then take off running. Other times, they would walk the hills of neighboring plots and eventually succumb to the temptation of stealing some of the beautiful fruit hanging on the trees.
When Jackie was 5-6 years old, he had two real loves in his life, baseball and music. He dreamed of one day being able to play pro-ball and to fulfill his desire to play the guitar. His older brother, “Speedy”, was taking guitar lessons and would occasionally show Jackie different chords on the instrument. Speedy was much more interested in hitting a baseball than playing music, but Jackie would seize every opportunity to practice on the guitar.
Unfortunately, at around 6 years old, Jackie developed Pneumatic Fever. He was only a month away from finishing first grade when he was restricted from leaving home. He spent most of that summer in bed and finally was able to return to limited activities, about one week before second grade classes commenced. However, Jackie soon found himself with another health challenge; at eight years old he contracted Polio. This was an extremely difficult and dangerous disease because of the timing. Polio vaccines were just starting to be developed, by virologist Jonas Salk, with limited quantities being available. Jackie was ordered back to bed, spending nearly a year fighting this hurdle. He had to wear braces on his legs and use crutches for maneuvering. During his fourth-grade schooling, a friend, “Georgia” would bring homework to his house so he could finish the assignments needed to advance to fifth grade.
Every two months the class teacher, Miss Dixie, would visit the home and check on Jackie and his progress.
“She was very pretty”, said Jackie…she was my first crush! As a teenager Jackie continued enhancing his skills in playing both baseball and the guitar. While attending High School in Henderson his ability on the guitar allowed him to play live gigs in the local area. He played rhythm guitar for his band called “Country Sunshine”. The group played some early rock ‘n roll tunes but mostly the country hits at that time. They booked Proms, Sadie-Hawkins dances and other gatherings; trying to stay active in the local music scene.
At age 21, Jackie’s most paramount, health challenge would overwhelmingly assault his entire body. A rare and acute autoimmune disorder called Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) would force him back into bed. This disease comes with complete muscle dysfunction and paralysis. He was unable to feed himself or do anything physical…even needed to have his eyelids glued open! He was taken to a Health Center in Warm Springs, Georgia to bathe in the naturally-heated therapeutic waters. Except for a short, 2-week home visit, Jackie was at the Center for over two years.
During his rehab he developed a severe respiratory disease, he developed a severe respiratory disease; it became essential for him to be placed in an Iron Lung machine. All personal care was provided by his attending Nurse, Silas Pate. Silas continuously stayed at Jackie’s side; their beds right beside each other. Silas was his “Angel of Mercy”; providing his baths, feedings, haircuts, brushing his teeth… EVERYTHING! Silas would occasionally write letters updating the family on Jackie’s progress.
Whenever Jack wanted to read any books or letters, they had to be suspended in front of his face; Silas would turn the pages when prompted.
