Support from across Alabama and the nation is pouring in for the family of U.S. Air Force Major John A. “Alex” Klinner after the Trussville resident was killed while serving overseas earlier this month.

A GoFundMe campaign created to support Klinner’s wife, Libby, a teacher, and their three young children has already surpassed $1 million in donations, reflecting a broad outpouring of generosity from people who never met the airman but want to help the family he left behind.

Local reports say Klinner had recently moved to Trussville with his wife and children, embracing a new beginning for the family in the community.

Trussville Mayor Ben Short also reflected on the loss in a message shared with residents.

“Among those lost was Major Alex Klinner, who had only recently moved to Trussville with his family, beginning a new chapter of life in our community,” Short said. “While his time here was short, the loss we feel is no less significant.”

Short added that Klinner’s decision to serve his country represented “the very best of our nation.”

The fundraiser, titled “Honoring Major Alex Klinner — Supporting Libby & Children,” was organized by Klinner’s sister-in-law, Sarah Rose Harrill, to help the family navigate life after the loss of their husband and father.

Funds raised will go directly to Libby Klinner and the couple’s children to provide stability and support in the months and years ahead.

Major Klinner, 33, was killed on March 12 when a KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq during a mission connected to Operation Epic Fury, according to U.S. Air Force officials. He had served eight years in the United States Air Force.

In a social media post following the tragedy, his wife, Libby Klinner, reflected on the loss.

“Alex and his crew were on the plane that crashed in Iraq. I’m devastated to lose the best person I know, my best friend.”

Beyond his military service, organizers of the fundraiser say Klinner was known for his character and commitment to others.

“Alex was more than a serviceman,” Harrill wrote on the fundraising page. “He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and the kind of person who would quietly step in to help anyone who needed it. He embodied what it means to be a servant leader.”

Klinner and his wife were raising three young children — a two-and-a-half-year-old and seven-month-old twins. In a moment, the young family found their lives permanently changed.

“Libby and Alex built a beautiful life together and were raising three precious children,” Harrill wrote. “In an instant, Libby has been left to walk through profound grief while caring for their young family.”

The campaign’s goal has been raised to $2 million as the donations continue to come from thousands of individuals moved by the family’s story.

At the time of writing this article, the amount donated was $1,378,099. Among the largest contributors so far is hedge fund manager Bill Ackman, who donated $80,000 to the effort.

Organizers say the fundraiser is intended not only to provide financial support but also to surround the family with encouragement during an extraordinarily difficult time.

“During this incredibly difficult season, we want to surround Libby and the children with the same generosity and love that Alex so freely gave to others,” Harrill wrote.

Those wishing to support the Klinner family can contribute through the GoFundMe campaign or share the fundraiser with others as the community continues honoring the legacy of a husband, father and airman who served his country.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].