In loving memory of
Ray Strong

• February 19, 1939
• -
• June 20, 2021

• Share

Raymond C. Strong (Erie, PA) affectionately known as Ray, passed away peacefully with his wife and children by his side at his home in Eustis, FL on June 20th as he went to be with his Lord and Savior at the young age of 82.  Ray courageously fought a year-long battle with cancer.

Ray was loved by so many and was one-of-a-kind.  He was a wonderful husband, the absolute best father, grandfather, and loved by so many.  He was opinionated, passionate, kind, and never met a stranger.  He worked hard and played hard.  An extremely loyal and outspoken man.  He spoke the truth, was blunt, and to the point.  Many didn’t want to ask him a question, because they knew he was going to give an answer, and most times it wasn’t the answer they wanted to hear.

Survived by the love of his life and wife of 60 years, Barbara Strong; his children: Christine Daniel (Kevin) St. Marys, GA; Timothy Strong (Darlena) Palmetto, FL, and Connie Howell (Thomas) Apopka, FL; his brother, Edward Strong (Erie, PA); his cherished grandchildren: Bryan Lukas (Nicole), Waverly, GA, Timothy (TJ) Strong, Palmetto, FL, Kirsten Lukas (Zack), St. Marys, GA, Jordan Strong (Ashley), Palmetto, FL, Nicholas & Taylor Howell, Apopka, FL, and great-grandchildren: Kenzie & Kendalyn Lukas, Waverly, GA, Parker White and Beckham Byrd, St. Marys, GA.

Preceded in death by his father John Strong, mother Marie McBride/Strong/Hammer, brothers: Jack McBride, Tom McBride, John Strong, and sister Gladys Juhas, and many nieces & nephews.

Ray was born in Erie, PA to John and Marie Strong on February 19.  He attended Sacred Heart Catholic School and graduated from Cathedral Prep in Erie, PA. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force, followed by a notable career of 36 yrs. in the bread business working for Firch Baking Company, Flowers Baking Company, and IBC.  Before retiring, he worked at Publix Supermarkets and Albertsons.  He often said bagging groceries, socializing, and making others smile was the best job he ever had. He was loved deeply and will be missed by his family and friends.