The sad news reached us on the first day of autumn, the beautiful Roxanne, the seemingly life long assistant to the Great Alexander, died in her sleep on September 21, 1998. Rachel Calhoun MarxLennon has passed away. It was just a week before her and Grandpa BeeWee's 51^st wedding anniversary.

Rachel Denise Calhoun MarxLennon was born July 14, 1922 in Springfield, IL. She was the youngest of eight children. At the age of 12, she moved in with Gunther and Lynn MarxLennon. Rachel was a sort of combination houseguest and housekeeper for the couple.

As you know, after she and Grandpa BeeWee were married in 1947, she joined him as his beautiful assistant throughtout the rest of her life.

She and BeeWee never had children, though Rachel was very active in the Children's Rights movement beginning in the late 60's.

"Roxanne" was every bit as much of the Great Alexander's act as BeeWee was, and many felt he would have failed without her charm and grace. In fact, it was Rachel that helped BeeWee transform his act into more of a comedy routine as the years wore on and magic acts lost their appeal.

The funeral was on September 26^th in Las Vegas. There was a not surprisingly large turnout. Patrons of the magic shop, old fans and friends turned up along with a healthy number of family members. There was Chrissy, the girls, and me, along with Angel, Tony, and Stephen. (I thought that was especially nice since Angel had only met Rachel once before.) Levi is still in Europe, but sent flowers. Max was even there.

Grandpa BeeWee was noticeably hurt by his loss, but happy to have the love and support of those attending.

Rachel was a wonderful woman and will be sorely missed.