Obituary of Charlene Strong
Charlene Thompson was delivered by mid-wife at home in a log cabin on January 12, 1944. Born in John Littles Creek, Kentucky she was one of fifteen children from the union of the late Kelly and Dora (Napier) Thompson. She would attend school through the eighth grade leaving to care for younger siblings.
Charlene married the love of her life, Willie Strong, on September 9, 1961. As a young woman, she had performed factory work in Plymouth, Michigan, and later worked retail for several employers retiring in the early 1990’s from Big Lots. First and foremost, Charlene, was a homemaker, and she was proud to care for the needs of her family. A woman of devout Christian faith she put Christ first in her life and raised her children in the church. Most recently, she had attended Kingdom Life Church in Romulus.
Charlene was an expert conversationalist. She never met a stranger and in fact often struck up dialogues with complete strangers. Charlene served as the unofficial welcoming committee at church, making new visitors feel at home. She was enthralled with body language and words.
Although, she could be strong-willed and quite blunt. Those who had the privilege to know her knew that she was the consummate caregiver. Charlene was a fantastic cook and made sure visitors to her home left with a full belly. She had a wonderful sense of humor, and the “Jolly Joker” wasn’t afraid to challenge someone to a push up or arm-wrestling contest.
Charlene was a gifted gardener. She loved to tend to her beautiful flowers, growing morning glories with her husband, amaryllis, and shamrocks to name a few. One thing that was certain, throughout her life she continually surprised her family keeping them on their toes.
Charlene Strong, age 77, of Dundee passed away at home on Wednesday; March 24, 2021. In addition to her parents her passing was preceded by a four month old son: Terry Lee Strong; and three sisters: Mae Perdue, Virginia Crabtree, and Bonnie Rae “Jewel” Baker.
To cherish her memory Charlene leaves three children: William Kelly (Lisa) Strong of Hillsdale, Michigan, Phillip Cary (Renee) Strong of Manitou Beach, Michigan, and Charlene (Gregory) Gentry Jr. of Dundee, Michigan; six sisters: Nora Lee Combs, Judy Irene Combs, Amarillas Ann Spencer, Shirley Haddix, Fannie Jean Haddix, Mary Elva Strong; five brothers: McKinley “Bud” Thompson, Kelly Thompson Jr., Wendell Thompson, Francis Edward Thompson, Ken Thompson; eleven grandchildren: Samuel Strong, Abraham (Jessica) Strong, Elijah Strong, Elisabeth (Kaleb) Hartman, Laramie (Charlie) Petrosky, Shennay Strong, Chanel Ellis, Joshua Roughley, Ashley Gentry, Vanessa Gentry, and Bethany Gentry; ten great grandchildren: Dominic, Alexis, Emma, Chloe, and Mila Strong, Kyle, Dakota, Hailey, and Ayden Petrosky, and Castiel Holbrook; one great-great granddaughter: Aleah Marie Petrosky.
Friends may gather from 11:00am until 2:00pm on Saturday; March 27, 2021 at Kingdom Life Church, 8770 Wayne Road, Romulus, Michigan 48174. A Worship Service Celebrating Her Life will follow at 2:00pm also at the church. Pastor Steve Bishop will officiate. Procession will follow to Rath Cemetery in Raisinville Township for burial. Merkle Funeral Service, Dundee; 297 Tecumseh Street, Dundee, Michigan 48131 (734) 529-3156 has been entrusted with her arrangements.
Memorials are suggested to the Strong Family to assist with funeral arrangements. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.