Mason Dane Alexander

Mason Dane Alexander, better known as “Money Mason”, a remarkable individual whose life was filled with achievements and promise.

Born on September 15, 2006, in Carmel, Indiana, to Kelly Joyce Harris and Johnny Dujuan Alexander, Mason's journey was marked by dedication and talent. Mason was preceded in death by his father, Johnny Dujuan Alexander.

Mason's educational path took him through Brookview Elementary School, Raymond Park, Stonybrook, Riverside Middle School, and Hamilton Southeastern High School. As a talented athlete, Mason shined as a defensive back and kick return specialist of his high school football team. Notably, Mason's exceptional performance earned him recognition, including a memorable moment where he returned a 96-yard kick-off return for a touchdown during a critical game.

In December 2024, Mason graduated ahead of schedule to join the University of Pittsburgh as an early enrollee, majoring in Finance. Recognized as the 4th overall prospect in Indiana for the 2025 class and the 34th-ranked cornerback in the nation, Mason earned an impressive 27 offers from esteemed universities such as Auburn, Florida, Michigan State, and Texas A&M. Mason became the highest-rated recruit in Pitt's incoming class and secured a spot as an ESPN 300 recruit for the 2025 class.

Mason also earned:

• All-State Honors at the Hoosier State Relay (March 2022).

• Indiana High School Athletic Association, Inc. Participant Award for Outstanding Achievement (2022).

• Recognition in the Indiana State High School Championship Final Tournament in Track and Field.

• Prime Time Top 25 Honors at the Gritty Awards (April 2024).

• All-State Honors in Track & Field for earning:

• 5th place in the 100M Dash (June 2024).

• State Champion in the 400M Relay (June 2024).

• ISHAA Boys Track & Field State Runner-Up (November 2024).

Mason’s love for sports began at the age of three, fostered by his father’s encouragement. Mason enjoyed fishing with his father the most in addition to playing baseball, football, basketball, and track—excelling in every sport and leaving behind a blazing legacy in the Hall of Fame of Brookview Elementary, Riverside Middle School, and HSE High School. His father always said Mason was destined to be the one. Mason embodied that "All-Star" spirit on and off the field with a warm and infectious smile that could light up an arena.

Dedicated to developing Mason on and off the field, his trainer, mentor, and friend, Jamill “Millz” Smith, spent endless early mornings and late evenings practicing, weightlifting, traveling for 7v7 games, countless road trips to various colleges and creating everlasting memories with Mason.

Committed to his relationship with Christ, Mason attended early morning Bible study classes and church services at Heartland Church, where he had plans to be baptized prior to his start at the University of Pittsburgh. Head Coach Pat Narduzzi recently shared a heartfelt moment, recalling how Mason spoke of his faith and his desire to be baptized before going to college. This decision reflected Mason’s upbringing, which shaped him into a caring young man, driven by Christ, with a promising future.

Mason cherished his mother, Kelly—sharing a birthday just four days apart—and his siblings, especially enjoying pranking Jai and relying on Kennedy to get him into trouble or out of it. Mason was always a joy to be around, sharing special moments with Uncle Kass over a Rubik’s Cube, being a lover of dance (evidenced by countless TikToks with sisters and friends), or playing Xbox with his cousins and brother—Dale, Janai, Kam, Christian, among others.

Nurtured by all, because “Mason does no wrong,” Nana always ensured his favorite snacks were within reach. Mr. Randy Weston always treated Mason like a son and with that, Mason and Chandler formed a bond like no other. Mason always made sure to make his routine visits to Chandler’s, Patrick’s or the Bakers’ house where he raided the fridge after afternoon workouts. Mason was a jokester, always flashing a smile and ever ready to handle new endeavors with captivating charisma and unwavering confidence.

Mason Alexander was called home on March 1, 2025, at the precious age of 18 years, 5 months, and 16 days. His family and friends take comfort in his faith and the beautiful memories he created.

Mason leaves behind:

• His devoted mother, Kelly Joyce Harris (William Cox).

• Siblings: Kennedy Murray, Jai Alexander, Jordan Alexander, Johntae Alexander, Yajaa Alexander-Moore, Aniyah Alexander, Airrion Boyd, Janai Alexander, Aliyah Alexander, and Amani Alexander.

• Bonus sisters: Britney Murray, Whitney Murray, Sidney Emerson, Datrianna Emerson, and Zamiyah Morris.

• Special friend: Ava Wright.

• Devoted brothers: Chandler Weston, Patrick Kailie, Christian Ortiz, Brennan Baker, Kameron Reed, and Liam Boyd.

• Maternal grandparents: Nancy Harris-Fortner and Rodger C. Mitchell.

• Paternal grandparents: Wanda Render and John Hayes (deceased).

He is also survived by a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, family, friends, and loved ones.

Special thanks to his dedicated team of coaches over the years, including Jamill Smith and the Millz 2 Be Made Family, Coach Michael Kelly, athletic director Jim Self and the entire HSE staff & families, Head Coach Pat Narduzzi of the University of Pittsburgh, and CB Coach Archie Collins of the University of Pittsburgh.

Mason's legacy as an athlete and individual continues to inspire those who knew him. His story is a testament to hard work, talent, and the impact one can have on their community.