Geraldine Marie Strait, age 97, of Greenville, Ohio, passed away on Friday, July 26, 2013 at 11:30 AM at the Brethren Retirement Community, Greenville, Ohio.  She was born on April 1, 1916 in Saint George, West Virginia, to the late Lela Pearl Owens.

She is survived by her children and spouses, Janet & Joe Blackford of Tipp City, Ohio, Mary & Jerry Blackford of Tipp City, Ohio, Virginia & Jim Blackford of New Madison, Ohio, Joann & Kenny Didier of Vancouver, Washington, Phillip & Becky Strait of Greenville and Nancy & Steve Conner of Greenville; 14 grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren; siblings, Melvin, Bruce, Norma, Jean and David of West Virginia and Susie of New Mexico; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her mother she is preceded in death by her husband, John Junior Strait; siblings, Todd, Gert, Roy, Jim, Ed and June; and grandson in law, Pat McNutt.

Geraldine was a housewife and also cared for the Shahan and Brows family.  She taught Sunday school at Poplar Grove Church of the Brethren, was involved with the Jolly 60’s at Faith Baptist Church and the Service Circle at Hillgrove Federated Church and attend bible study groups.  She loved playing baseball and games with the family, loved baking pies and bread and crocheting.  She always had beautiful flower gardens with no weeds and also grew blue berries. 

There will be a service held on Tuesday, July 30, 2013 at 10:30 AM at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio, with Rev. Terry Haworth officiating.  Burial will follow in the Teagarden Cemetery in Ansonia, Ohio.  Family will receive friends on Monday, July 29, 2013 from 5-7 PM at the funeral home.

It is the wishes of the family that memorial contributions be given the Brethren Retirement Community Resident Aid Fund.