Jimmy Strong, long-time resident of Ozark County, died February 4, 2018 at Good Samaritan in Mountain Home, Arkansas.  On January 27, he celebrated his 86 ^th birthday surrounded by family and friends.

Jimmy was born on January 27, 1932 near Luna, Missouri to Lisses Strong and Ethel (Pitcock).  He is preceded in death by his wife, his parents, four brothers, an infant sister, and an infant grandson.

On April 16, 1953 in Kansas City, Missouri, Jimmy married Laveta (Evans), also of Ozark County.  The couple made their home on a farm east of Gainesville with their three children.

When asked recently what one accomplishment in his life he was most proud of, Jimmy responded with "starting the Strong Turkey Farm".  When his children were young, he was actively involved in the local 4-H clubs.  He cherished his time with family and friends. For the last few years, one of his favorite activities was going for drives through the countryside and many family members have fond memories of sharing this time with him.  His many other interests included traveling, gardening, working jigsaw puzzles, crafting, and food.

Jimmy is survived by his three children and their spouses, Penny (Jerry) James of Raymore, MO, Tandy (Theresa) Strong and Sandy (Cindy) Strong, both of Gainesville; six grandchildren, April (Matt) Lynne, Justin (Marsha) Strong, Nathaniel James, Sherrie Walker, Julie Strong, and Leci Strong; eight great-grandchildren; one brother, Carl Strong of Republic; three sisters, Mary Lutz of Holden, MO, Marcella Crawford and Louella (Jim) Dutton both of Mountain Home;  brothers and sisters-in-law, Lyndell Strong, Geneva Froman, Velma Strong, Shearl Evans, Lavonne Stone, Ronnie (Vicky) Evans, and Delores James; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at the Gainesville Church of Christ with Halbert Smith officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday morning from 10:00 a.m. to service time at the church. Burial will be in the Sallee Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to Sallee Cemetery or Gainesville Church of Christ. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.