Strait, Dorothy Orene McElroy 


Dorothy Orene McElroy Strait was born December 21, 1923, in Pleasant Hill, Louisiana, 
to Henry J. and Gussie McElroy. She was called home to be forever with her Lord and 
Savior on February 1, 2006. She was 82 years, one month, and 11 days old. The memorial 
service will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, February 4, 2006, at Longview First Assembly of 
God, with the Rev. Randy Carter officiating, assisted by the Rev. Ronnie Shipman and 
the Rev. Terrill Pearson. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clinton Strait. 
Together, they labored tirelessly to build the kingdom of God. Mom was a charter member 
of Spring Hill Assembly of God, where she had served in several capacities, two of which 
were teacher of the Adult Sunday School Class and Women's Ministries' leader. Mom worked 
at a variety of jobs, from chopping cotton early in her marriage to working with pip at 
Robroy Industries to sewing alterations at Martin's. She felt her most important job was 
as a homemaker. She made our home a safe harbor and a welcome place for friends and 
family to gather. She was an excellent cook and seamstress. There were always guests for 
Sunday lunch. Even after her health started to fail, she could spread a table for royalty. 
She is survived and will be greatly missed by her seven children and their spouses and 
companions, Jerry and Betty Sue Strait of White Oak, Buddy Strait and Shari Courtney of 
Gladewater, Cheryl Fountain and Alan Allgood of Longview, Carol Strait of Longview, Ron 
and Sue Strait of Gladewater, Anita and Byron Sandifer of Longview, and Steve and Donna 
Strait of Gilmer. She was "Granny" to 13 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and two 
great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews; and a 
host of friends. The rich heritage she leaves is not of wealth, but of her faith to be 
carried on by her family and perpetuated by their families. The family wishes to express 
their appreciation and love for Doris Ratley, her special friend and caregiver of many 
years. She brought sunshine and laughter into Mother's life. She called all of us in at 
the hospital and told us what a privilege it had been to be our mother. "Well, Mom, it 
was a greater privilege to be your children. You truly are special to us who knew you 
best, and you will live on in our hearts and lives." In lieu of flowers, the family 
requests donations be made to Greater Hospice of Longview for Margaret's House. For 
those unable to attend, online condolences may be made at www.mem.com.

Published in the Longview News-Journal on 2/3/2006.