James E. Strode's Obituary
Decatur- James E. Strode Sr., 75, of Decatur, passed away Sunday, August 11, 2013, in his home surrounded by his family after a long rough battle with cancer.
He was born June 28, 1938 in the Randolph Community of Metcalfe County, Kentucky, the son of Melvin Thomas and Dovie Isabell (McCoy) Strode. He was previously employed as a mechanic with ADM. He was a member of GT Church and enjoyed fishing. He married Margaret Ferguson June 26, 1960. They shared over fifty-three years of marriage.
He leaves behind his beloved wife Margaret of Decatur, sons James E. Strode Jr. and wife Carla and Michael S. Strode both of Decatur, daughters Diana L. Glass and husband Randell of Glasgow, Kentucky and Susan G. Barrett and husband Wendell of Decatur, brothers Jasper “Ray” Strode and wife Betty of Moweaqua, Melvin Strode and wife Glenda of Decatur, and Marvin Strode and wife Hazel of Georgia, sisters Minnie Christine Borchart and husband Louis of Moline and Elsie Marie Harper of Glasgow, Kentucky, sixteen grandchildren, and eighteen great-grandchildren.
He was reunited in Heaven with his parents, brother Charles, and sisters Mary and Velma.
Services to celebrate James’ life will be 2 p.m. Thursday, August 15, 2013 at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, August 14, 2013 at the funeral home. Burial with “Flight Home” Ceremony will be in Graceland Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the wishes of the family in c/o Margaret Strode.
The family of James E. Strode is being served by the Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL. Please view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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