Jasper Ray Strode's Obituary
It is with great sadness that the family of Jasper Ray Strode announces his passing after a long struggle with cancer, on September 19, 2019 at the age of 89 years at the Imboden Nursing Home in Decatur, Illinois. Born on January 22, 1930 and raised in Kentucky. He was 19 years old when he married Betty McClellan. They were married in Kentucky, then moved to Decatur, Illinois. There he fathered and raised 4 children.
Jasper was an automobile mechanic by trade. Later he developed a passion for wood working. He made lots of different things; baby cradles, small Christmas trees with built in lights, paper plate holders, back scratchers, twirly birds, etc. He gave them away as gifts. He also loved tending his vegetable garden. He was a very generous and loving person.
He leaves his wife of 69 years, Betty (McClellan) Strode; his sons, Lonnie Strode of Springfield Missouri and John Strode of Flagler Beach Florida; his daughters, Kathy (Strode) Spaulding of Katy Texas, and Sheryl (Strode) Moore of Decatur Illinois. His grandchildren, Christopher Strode, Kevin Strode, Joshua Blair, Kimberly Sanders, Blake Strode, Anthony Strode, Kyle Strode, Aaron Kraft, Chelsea Kraft, and Michael Moore. He has 14 Great Grand Children and 4 Great-Great Grand Children. He is survived by many other family members and close friends.
His memorial will be held on Friday, September 27, 2019 at West Decatur Church of God, 4500 W. Main ST., Decatur IL. Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Celebration of life will start at 11:00 am.
Please view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com
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