Sumter County Mourns 42-Year-Old Jessica Christine Alexander, Found Dead After Reported Missing for Over a Week

October 20, 2025 | Sumter County, S.C. — The community of Sumter County is grieving deeply following the tragic death of 42-year-old Jessica Christine Alexander, a woman remembered for her radiant smile, generous heart, and unwavering love for her family. Jessica’s life was heartbreakingly cut short after she was reported missing just over a week ago — a disappearance that gripped the local community in fear and hope before ending in unimaginable sorrow.

According to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, Jessica was reported missing on October 11, after family members were unable to reach her for several days. A widespread search was launched, involving law enforcement officers, local volunteers, and community advocates who refused to give up hope of finding her safe. Tragically, that hope was shattered when investigators located her body over the weekend in a remote area of the county. Authorities have confirmed that her death is being investigated as a homicide.

Sheriff Anthony Dennis expressed his condolences to the Alexander family in a statement Monday morning, calling the loss “a devastating blow not only to those who loved Jessica, but to our entire community.” He added that detectives are working tirelessly to determine what led to her disappearance and death, and that justice will be pursued with every available resource.

“Jessica was someone’s mother, daughter, sister, and friend,” Sheriff Dennis said. “She deserved to live, and she deserves justice. We will not rest until the person or persons responsible are held accountable.”

For those who knew Jessica, the news of her death has been almost impossible to process. Friends describe her as a vibrant, compassionate woman with a strong spirit and a heart that overflowed with kindness. She was known for her love of family, her devotion to her children, and her ability to make everyone feel valued and seen.

“Jessica had the kind of energy that lifted a room,” said childhood friend Monica Evans. “She was always smiling, always encouraging others — even when she was going through her own struggles. Losing her this way is just unthinkable.”

Jessica was a lifelong resident of South Carolina, where she built a life rooted in family and community. She was passionate about helping others, whether through her church, her work, or simple acts of generosity. Her friends say she never hesitated to offer a helping hand, a warm hug, or a listening ear.

As investigators continue to piece together the timeline of her disappearance, loved ones have turned their grief into a call for awareness and unity. A candlelight vigil is being planned at Swan Lake Iris Gardens later this week, where friends, family, and neighbors will gather to honor Jessica’s memory and support one another through this period of mourning.

Her family released a heartfelt statement on Monday, thanking the community for their love and prayers during what they described as “the darkest moment of their lives.” “Jessica was the light of our family,” the statement read. “We are broken, but we take comfort knowing how many people cared for her. Please continue to pray for us as we seek answers and justice for Jessica.”

The Sumter County Coroner’s Office is expected to release additional details once the autopsy is complete. Authorities are asking anyone with information about Jessica’s disappearance or death to contact the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.

As the investigation unfolds, the community remains united in grief — but also in determination. Jessica’s memory has become a rallying point for those who believe her life, though tragically cut short, will continue to inspire love, strength, and change in the place she called home.

Rest in peace, Jessica Christine Alexander.
Your light will forever shine in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.