Paul E. Alers

Paul E. Alers, 60, of Alexandria, VA, passed away January 4, 2022 at INOVA - Alexandria Hospital of natural causes. Paul attended Ohio University where he was awarded a BA in Visual Communication in 1983. Upon graduation he embarked on an exemplary career in photojournalism. His work started with local newspapers moving on to stints at United Press International (UPI) from 1992-96 and the Associated Press (AP), 1997-2006 bringing his images to national and international audiences While at UPI, he was a member of the White House Press Corps covering Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton; traveling extensively with their entourages photographing luminaries of all stripes from members of Congress, world leaders, and celebrities. His excellence as a photo editor earned him the honor of representing UPI as a neutral judge for the annual White House News Photographers contest. Other news work contributions were wide and diverse, ranging from community newsletters to national magazines. Moving on from news reporting, he began work as a Photo Editor at NASA from 2006-2013 where he covered shuttle launches, student robotic competitions, presentations to President Obama, visiting dignitaries, and documenting notable anniversaries and milestones in NASA's history. He spoke often of his chance to meet and speak personally with both Neil Armstrong and John Glenn. He photographed Stephen Hawking in a shot that has been used extensively worldwide. Thank you, Paul for your visual contribution. Paul is predeceased by his parents, Flora Ann "Flossie" Alers (2011) and Perry B. Alers (2021). He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Cornish, his son, Christopher, and his siblings Ellen and Perry Alers. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Paul E. Alers please visit our Sympathy Store.