James Lee Strong, 81, died August 23, 2009 at Promise Regional Medical Center. He was born Sept. 8, 1927 in Webster Grove, MO to Roma and Gladys Luna Strong.

He married Carmelita June Patrick in Portland, Oregon on May 20, 1950. She died Jan. 24, 2002.

A longtime Hutchinson resident, he was a truck driver, driving for Friesen, Western Foods and retiring from Groendyke Trucking. He served in the United States Army.

Survivors include two sons, James Allen Strong and wife Carrie, Branson, MO, Brian Lee Strong, Hutchinson, daughter, Amy Jo Strong,Hutchinson; grandson, Robert James Strong and granddaughter, Ashley Strong Munn and husband Kristopher; and a brother, Dwain Strong, Hutchinson.

He was preceded in death by son Robert Eugene Tucker and two brothers, Charles & Utah Strong.

Funeral service will be 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 25, 2009 at Elliott Chapel, Pastor Wayne Johnson presiding. Burial will be in Abbyville Cemetery. Friends may call Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until service time at Elliott Mortuary.

Memorials may be made to donor's choice in care of Elliott Mortuary.

Visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave condolences for the family.