On Oct. 20, 2017, Alex J. de Villier Jr., 95, was called peacefully to eternal rest surrounded by his loving family at home. Alex was born in Port Arthur, TX on June 28, 1922 and lived a wonderful life with his loving wife of 67 years; Charlotte (Santos) de Villier raising their 9 children in the Atwater Park area of Springfield. He also leaves 23 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and his faithful K9 companion, Chum-Ling. He was an Air Force Pilot during WWII. He was a career officer in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of Lt. Colonel. After serving his country for 24 years, Alex enjoyed success in the private sector. He was a Comptroller at Mt Holyoke College for 10 years followed by years as an executive recruiter for Management Recruiters in Springfield. A tireless worker, he retired at the age of 80. Alex was a lifelong parishioner of Sacred Heart Church in Springfield and a role model to so many for his devotion to his faith, his wife and his family. He will be sadly missed by his friends, neighbors and all who knew him. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tues., Oct., 24, 2017 at 11:00 a.m., in Sacred Heart Church, 395 Chestnut . Following cremation, a private burial with military honors will be held in the MA Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Sacred Heart Church Renovation Project in Springfield or to the Sisters of St Joseph Retirement Fund, 577 Carew St, Springfield, MA 01104. The Grise Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.GriseFH.com.