Larence Elden Strong, 92, of Springfield , MO passed away March 7, 2023 at 2:20 p.m. after a long illness in Springfield.

He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Jaunita J. Strong; daughter Deborah G. Whitesides and husband Dallas; son Larry L. Strong and wife Haylan; one granddaughter Lyssa; one great grandson Seth; brother Charles and wife Jurldeen; sisters-in-law Christine and Peggy; and many nieces and nephews.

Larence was born in Chandler, OK in 1930 to Homer and Rutha (Johnson) Strong and was the 7th son of a large family of 14 brothers and 2 sisters.

He lived a full life, always helping others through the Church. He absolutely loved to camp and fish.

Visitation will be held at Cherry St. Baptist church Monday, March 13, 2023 at 10.a.m. Funeral services following at 11:00 a.m. He will then be laid to rest in Pontiac Cemetery, Pontiac, MO.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cherry St. Baptist missionary fund. Arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.