Martin Strother

Martin Strother obituary

Martin Strother

Martin Strother Obituary

Published by W.S. Watkins & Son Funeral Home from Nov. 15 to Nov. 19, 2009.
STROTHER, Martin, of Richmond, went to be with the Lord November 13, 2009. He was preceded in death by his father, Andrew Lee Strother; and his mother, Rosa Lee Williams. He is survived by four sisters, Shirley Watkins, Delorious Saunders, Annie Teresa George and Florence Strother; one aunt, Cecelia Cole (Robert); three brothers, Melvin Strother (Marva), James Tiller (Roslyn) and a devoted brother and sister-in-law, Alvin and Betty Strother; one uncle, Tommie Tiller (Judy); and a host of relatives and friends, two devoted, Paulis Johnson and George Macklin. Martin was a graduate of Maggie L. Walker High School, a member of the U.S. Army, pursued graduate studies at Indiana University, and was a 1977 graduate of Virginia Union University, where he was a proud member of Groove Phi Groove, was Adjunct Professor of Voice, and eventually served as the Associate Director of VUU's Preparatory School of Music. In addition, Martin served as the Interim Director of The African-American Heritage Chorale. He was also a devoted member and director of the Ebenezer Baptist Church Choir. Martin made his definitive mark in this world as an accomplished opera singer and performer, who was very passionate about instilling the gift of music in the youth of the City of Richmond, whom he taught. Martin's talent was showcased in such operatic performances as Porgy and Bess, Don Giovanni, Tartuffe, and The Nightingale. Off Broadway performances included Big River and Showboat. Mr. Strother had also performed for former President George Bush at the 1992 Republican Convention and in Philadelphia for a celebration honoring opera singer, Marian Anderson. Martin Strother's joyful, uplifting spirit and musical gift was used to comfort and move audiences locally, nationally, and abroad. Though small in stature, his booming deep voice and boundless charisma will forever be his legacy. His remains rest at the W.S. Watkins & Son Funeral Home, 2700 North Avenue. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, November 20, 2009 at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 216 W. Leigh Street, Richmond, Va 23220. Martin's remains will lie in state one hour prior to service. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of Virginia, 7231 Forest Ave., Richmond, Va. 23226, in the name of Martin Strother.


This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

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Not sure what to say?

June 27, 2018

J Peters posted to the memorial.

April 24, 2010

Someone posted to the memorial.

December 3, 2009

woodrow white posted to the memorial.

J Peters

June 27, 2018

I was just thinking about a performance during my youth when the soloist, Martin Strother, sang out the words "I am an American..." I don't know why it came to mind, but it made me decide to look him up. I was sorry to learn of his passing, but then was happy to learn that he had surpassed expectations with his musical talent. Glory to God for His gifts...

April 24, 2010

My prayers go out to Martin's family. I took private voice lessons from him and it enhanced my singing with my church choir and he gave me a great appreciation for opera in ways that were unexpected and refreshing. It was through private voice lessons from Martin that I connected the dots as a true soprano and not an alto. Rest and peace to his soul.
CS Brinkley--Chesterfield, VA

woodrow white

December 3, 2009

Because of Martin, I was able to find the limits of my talent to sing. Thanks again Martin, you will always be in my thoughts.Made God bless the family in your time of sorrow.

L Jones-Winston

November 25, 2009

To the Strother Family.

My thoughts and prayers goes out to you. I knew Martin as a child and lost contact with him after graduation.

From what I read, he had many accomplishments.

May God bless you during your time of sorrow.

Lu Richards

November 24, 2009

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Martin's passing. I met Martin during my freshman year at VUU. Martin's voice was powerful and vibrant and we often referred to him as Martin "Strothervinsky" as we knew "Opera" was in his future.

I feel honored and priviledged to have known him and pray that you will find peace and comfort in the memories he has left for you. VUU Class of '74

November 22, 2009

From one Brother to another. Brother Martin may you rest in peace. All Grooves will one day meet in heaven. "Earth has no sorrows that heaven cannot heal." Pete (Northern Virginia Chapter, NOVA)

Mary B

November 21, 2009

My sincere condolences to Martin's family. It was my pleasure to work with him on several shows, to experience his many talents, and to enjoy his friendship. He will be missed, but has left a wonderful legacy to the arts and to the Richmond community. You are in my prayers,and I hope memories of his warmth, talent and endless humor wiil comfort you.

L. Shirley Harvey

November 21, 2009

To the family:

I never heard Martin sing, but his eyes always did. He was such a very pleasant person. I enjoyed speaking with him when we had the chance. I am so sorry to hear of your loss.

Christine Tonkin

November 21, 2009

Martin was "Quirk" to me when we were children playing in our West End neighbourhood. I was on Powhatan & he was around the corner on Meadow. His sister Florence also played at my house and Melvin hung out with my older brother Marvin. We went through school together until graduating from M.L.Walker H.S where we both sang in the choir. What a wonderful, talented, kind and special guy. From reading other's comments, I'm sorry we were not in touch in later years.

Heartfelt condolences are extended to the Strother family from the Jones family - Christine (Canada), Delores (Atlanta) and Marvin (Northern Virginia).

Christine Jones Tonkin (M.L. Walker Class of '67)

Terry

November 20, 2009

So very sorry to hear of Marty's passing. Although it's been many years now, I can still hear that infectious laughter that could brighten your day! Music may have defined his life, but it was his spirit that made an unforgetable impression on everyone he met. What a big heart he had!
My heart goes out to you, for this terrible loss to your family...

November 20, 2009

TO THE STROTHER FAMILY

There are no words to comfort the heart at this time. Only God can fill that void. Martin is now singing with the Heavenly Angels. Sing on Fellow Dragon, Classmate & Friend. You will be missed.
"Maggie L Walker Class Of 1967"

THERESA FULGHAM

November 20, 2009

MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO ALL THE STROTHER
FAMILY DURING THIS TIME OF SORRW. JUST KEEP GOD CLOSE.

Mioshe Davis

November 19, 2009

I was saddened to hear the news of Mr. Marty...he was really a sweet man & he will be missed...my condolences & heart go to his family.

Joyce Byrd Cofield, VUU'69

November 19, 2009

My condolences to the Strother Family.
I have great memories of many hours of laughter and fun with Martin at Virginia Union in the late 60s. And of course, who could forget that wonderful voice!
My deepest sympathies !

JACKIE ANDREWS

November 19, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Olufunke Owolabi

November 19, 2009

Cousin, I am in awe of your gifts, soul, and all that you have accomplished in your lifetime. It is so very inspiring and uplifting. I am convinced you have fulfilled HIS Divine will.

With love and fond memories,

Charles Newton

November 19, 2009

We offer our sincere condolences to the family, friends, and co-workers of brother Marty Strother. We pray that memories of happier moments will help ease your pain. He will truly be missed.


The Richmond Graduate Chapter of Groove Phi Groove Social Fellowship Inc.

Clement Owolabi

November 19, 2009

Martins, Yes you are physically gone but in spirit you are with your love ones. Your memory will forever lingers with me. The beautiful years of the 70's in Richmond was a beautiful and memorable one. Adieu

November 19, 2009

To The Strother's Family,
I worked with Martin at Blackwell Elementary School. I was truly sadden to hear of his passing. You have my deepest condolences. It was a true privilege to have worked, talked, laughed and listen to Martin's beautiful voice as he worked with the children here at Blackwell. May God Bless and Keep you in his care.
Mary Page, Richmond, VA

Nate Brown

November 19, 2009

To Martin's family I grieve with and for you all. I spent many memorable moments with "Martin at VUU and found him to be a friend who loved at all times". I shall remember that voice and smile.
I pray that you too will focus on the great memories you had with him and remember the love he shared with us all.
Much love Rev. Nate Brown

Ruth Grimes-Crump

November 19, 2009

To The Family of Martin Strother:

I met Marty years ago while employed with the Department of Corrections. He was delightful, kind, and wonderfully talented.....a joy to be around.
It makes me sad to hear about the loss of Marty, but I am glad that I had the opportunity to be his friend and colleague, and to witness his extraordinary musical talent.

May warm thoughts and memories comfort you at this time.

Carolyn Brown-Lockhart

November 19, 2009

Mr Strother was a wonderful person with a big voice and heart to match. He always inspired his students at VUU to aim for the stars. He will truly be missed but never absent from our hearts. May God bless and keep you all during this time of sorrow.

Jeanne Johns Adkins

November 19, 2009

My husband, the late Aldrich W. Adkins, was so pleased to have known and worked with Martin Strother at Virginia State University. Please accept my deepest sympathy on the death of one so kind and talented.

Dee Stewart

November 19, 2009

Dear Family,

The Virgin Mary has given our Quirk a special place in the heavenly choir and a standing ovation while listening to him sing "Ave Maria." He is happy and at peace.

My love to you all, always.

November 19, 2009

To the Strother Family:

We are sorry for your loss.

Clarence J. Goode, Jr.

Adrienne Mandley

November 19, 2009

Mr. Strother was a remarkable man, singer and instructor. I had the pleasure to study with him on the campus of Virginia Union University while still in High School and as a college student at Virginia State University. It was an honor and a privilege to have worked with him. He will certainly be missed but never forgotten. My deepest condolences to the family.

November 19, 2009

My condolences to the Strother's family:
I will always remember Martin's beautiful voice. I met Marty in freshman year of college. He was a very close friend of my roommate. Marty is now singing in the choir in heaven.
Marty will be missed.
Bernice M. Walls

Robert Jones

November 19, 2009

I met Martin through his uncle Joe. He was one of the most remarkable persons I have ever met. I wish I had a recording of his voice. Quite an unbelievable talent. May God's peace with with the family.

From the staff of W.S. Watkins & Son Funeral Home

November 19, 2009

We present this guestbook to you with deepest compassion and with our sincerest expression of sympathy.

November 18, 2009

To The Strother's Family, I worked with Mr. Strothers at Blackwell Elementary School.You have my deepest condolences. It was a privilege to have worked with him. Barbara Richardson, Richmond, VA

November 18, 2009

To Mr. Strother's family, I had the pleasure of working with him at Blackwell Elementary School. He was a delight to know and watch him build a love of music with the children. I am sorry for your loss .Sincerely, April P. Davis Richmond, Va.

Alvernon Garey

November 18, 2009

To one of the greatest person, that I have ever met. God Bless You and Keep You!!! You will never be forgotten.
Love and my deepest condolences to your
family from me and my family.
Your Groove Brother Always,
JOE Garey

Margaret Brown LaPierre

November 18, 2009

My condolences to the Strother Family.

We were next door neighbors to the Strother Family for many years. My fondest memories are waving at Marty across the fence, hearing his infectious laughter and sitting on the porch and talking about music for hours. I will always cherish his friendship and being able to perform with him on stage.

Marty you will be missed, sing on.

November 18, 2009

Dear cousins,
We are a close-knit family which is why I will deeply miss my Buddy Quirk/my "older brother". We spent many a day enjoying life, but also long discussions reflecting on our family legacy and our goals. His zest for life was indeed the pill I always needed; his brotherly perspectives would help me to see the good in life. Quirk, keep watch over me and look after us with Unc, Mama, and Bunny. Your work here is done!!!

I will never forget you,

Cousin Snookie
(P.S.: Clement says farewell to a dear friend as well)

Michelle Bebbs

November 18, 2009

Alvin and Betty,

Sorry to hear of your loss. I did not know Martin, but I've heard nothing but good reports. He looks so much like Alvin. God be with you and your family.

Isaiah & Mryna Jefferson

November 18, 2009

Florence, and family
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this time of sorrow. May he rest in peace and continue to sing in heaven."What a voice". My brother Eugene Armstead and Martin were good friends.

Mrs.Myrna (Armstead ) & Isaiah Jefferson MLWHS Class '68 and '69, Midlothian, Virginia

Danette Porter

November 18, 2009

To the family of Martin Strother: "Don't let your heart be troubled. Believe in God. Believe also in me. In my Father's house are many homes. If it weren't so, I would have told you. I am going to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and will receive you to myself; that where I am, you may be there also."
John 14:1-3

Class of '77 VUU

Tyrone Corbett

November 18, 2009

“Our deepest condolences on your loss. Martin Strother was a very talented and equally giving man. He was a great influence on both my wife and I".

Tyrone & Yvette Corbett

Lee Jackson

November 18, 2009

To Alvin and the Strother's family, please except my deepest sympathies.

Eugene & Althea Armstead

November 18, 2009

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Chantil Carter

November 18, 2009

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Lynette Jackson (Burroughs)

November 18, 2009

To the Strother Family

May God Bless and keep you

Strother and I attended school together at Maggie Walker in Richmond, VA

Danette L. Bland

November 18, 2009

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Edward W. Smith

November 17, 2009

Martin Strother was a wonderful man with a very giving spirit. I asked him to come to Philadelphia, PA and perform for the Marian Anderson Scholarship Benefit Concert; and he and Karen Savage brought the house down. He always gave the male singers something to aspire to vocally at VUU. He was a great teacher. A man of character, integrity, and a good friend. Thanks Mr. Strother, you are missed.

Lonnie & Bumpsy Jones

November 17, 2009

Dearest Strother Family
I pray that God provides you the comfort and the shelter in this time of bereavement. I met Marty while working for the Department of Corrections. Oh, what fun we all had. We were a family,one for all and all for one. Marty blessed my husband and I by singing at our wedding some 31 years ago.
Marty continues to have a place in our hearts. My, how wonderful the heavenly choir will sound now. Marty's wonderful and blessed voice. His keen sense of humor and his love for all that is wonderful. His magnificent voice will be heard on high and greatly missed by all who knew him. Rest now my brother, God has you and loves you. We will meet again in that great place on high. I will listen for your voice. Peace

November 17, 2009

alvin, i'm so sorry to hear of the lost of your brother may god bless you and your family sincerly wlma dale wilkins class of 1974

ANTUANE RAMON MOORE

November 17, 2009

TO THE FAMILY OF MARTIN STROTHER:

EARTH HAS NO SORROW THAT HEAVEN CANNOT HEAL. MR. STROTHER WAS MY VOICE TEACHER AT THE VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY, AND I COACHED WITH HIM WHILE I WAS PURSING MY MASTER'S DEGREE AND AFTERWARDS. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER MARTY- MART FONDLY. I KNOW THAT MR.STROTHER IS SINGING GODS PRAISES IN THE HEAVENLY CHOIR AND SINGING THE SOLO TO "OLD MAN RIVER AND GO DOWN MOSES."

Joyce Cash Smith

November 17, 2009

My deepest condolences to the family of Marty. I am a former co-worker at the Dept. of Corrections. I will always remember the beautiful smile and wonderful voice. May God surround you with peace during this time.

November 17, 2009

Martin was a wonderful man with a wonderful talent. He will be missed very much.
Sincerely,
Joy Williams

Charlene Reynolds

November 17, 2009

Al:

Martin has left his earthly love ones and gone on to be with the Lord. Sadly he had to leave his family behind, but he also left his suffering. He made his mark on the world. I will always remember his fun loving spirit back in the day of the Woodrow Avenue annual cookout. Look to the Lord for your strength and I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

November 17, 2009

Hello Al, Rev Melvin, and sisters who names I can not remember. We are sadden to hear about Martin, known as "Quirk" to us. May God be with you in your time of loss. From the neighborhood.

Rev Louis and Juanita Winbush Jr.

Delorse Burton

November 17, 2009

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Robert Satterfield

November 17, 2009

I was sadden to hear the news of the loss of your loved one. Martin and I go back a long way. He will be greatly missed.

My prayers are with you during your bereavement.

Rober Satterfield, Jr., MLW Class of 67

Charlean Murray

November 17, 2009

Flo,
My condolences go out to you and your family with the passing of your brother. My prayers will be with you. God bless you and your family.

Lee Hanchey

November 17, 2009

Martin was a special friend and colleague, and a treasured member of the music community in Richmond. He was our daughter's teacher, and instructed many of my students. He sang at my mother's funeral. He always had the most wonderful spirit, great sense of humor, and deep and abiding faith. My deepest sympathies to the family and all who know and loved Martin.

Geneva Cox Ford

November 17, 2009

To Alvin Strother:

Just to let you know. Sorry to hear of the passing of your brother. But joy to know he is resting in the arms of the Lord. He is now directing God's
choir. Grace and peace be with you and your family. My prayers are with you.

Geneva Cox Ford/John Marshall Class of 1974.

Eugene Shelton

November 17, 2009

To the Strothers family, I was very sadden to hear of the passing of Martin or (Quirk) as the guys in the neighborhood use to call him. May God Bless and Comfort you during this time of grief.
Eugene (Cotton) Shelton

Penny Ingram

November 17, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Patrick D. McCoy

November 17, 2009

Words can not express the sense of great loss that I feel. Mr. Strother was my voice teacher at Virginia State University, preparing me to be the best that I can be in the arena of music. He spent countless hours molding, shaping and advising me and preparing me for both my junior and senior recitals. his kind, gentle spirit will always be in the highest thoughts of my mind. My deepest sympathies to the family.

John Evans

November 17, 2009

To The Strother family:
I had the pleasure of working with Marty at the Dept. of Corrections. He was a gifted and talented spirit who always had a smiling face and kind word for all who came in contact with him. I will miss him, but God needed another voice for his Heavenly Choir so he called Marty home to sing with the angels. May the Lord comfort you and strengthen you in your time of sorrow.

November 17, 2009

To The Family,
I remember Martin being a kind and friendly person during my time at MLWHS. May his voice and his memories live on in your hearts. God Bless and comfort you all. My prayers are with you.

Katrina Jackson Hicks - MLW'68

Alphonso Winbush

November 17, 2009

I am very sorry to hear of the passing of my good friend, Martin. My condolences to the family.

Deacon

Sharon Radabaugh

November 17, 2009

My heartfelt love to the family, I am saddened to find out Martin has left us. I sang with him at St. Paul's and he was a delight to work with, his love of music was contagious.

Judy MacKeigan

November 17, 2009

I had the pleasure of working with Martin in "Big River," and was blessed to do so. I have never forgotten the sincerity, kind manner and friendliness of this amazingly talented man. I know that God has welcomed Martin home with joy, and may He comfort those who are left to mourn.

Martin McCain

November 17, 2009

My prayers are to the family of Martin and our fellow Unionites. Martin was always an upbeat brother who really enjoyed sharing his gifted voice. He was a happy member of Groove Phi Groove and his presence was felt on the VUU campus. He will be miss. My prayer again to the family and his Groove brothers.

Janet M. Hall-Lane

November 17, 2009

To The Strother Family,
I am extremely sadden that Martin is no longer with us. Martin and I sang in VUU's choir together. Many years had past after college and I ran into Martin again in 2004 at Elhardt Middle School. I was so happy to see him. We talked and reminisced about what we considered the good old days with Dr. Hobbs and Mrs. Mankin. In 2007, I came upon Martin again face-to-face. I have had the pleasure of working with him at Summerhill/Ruffin Road Elementary School. I will miss his smile and his quiet demeanor. I will also miss the time we spent at school in the mornings; when he'd say good morning in such a rythmic tone. I'll miss his voice in the auitorium, when he worked with our students to articulate correctly while practicing for oratorical constructs. We will never have another opus of Santa Claus as he portrayed during the Winter Season. Martin was undoubtedly a man filled with talent. Family, please know that although his body is gone, his spirit will live on in our lives, as he made an enormous impact on the lives of the children at SHRR Elementary School.

Lisa Townes and Clarence and Grace Townes

November 17, 2009

Though sadness reigns today, joy will come in the morrow. Though he is absent from the flesh, he is with us in spirit. He is whole and healthy and in the loving care of the Heavenly Father. May the tender expressions of sympathy from those that care be of comfort to you at this difficult time.

Terry Taylor

November 17, 2009

To Martin's family and close friends. I worked with him at the Virginia State Police. He was always a joy to talk to and always had a big smile on his face. He will be missed and gave so much of himself. He touched all those who knew him. I will keep his family and close friends in my thoughts and prayers. He was an inspiration to those he knew and loved. We will miss him.

jackie king

November 17, 2009

to mr .james tiller and family sorry to hear about your brother you have my deepest sympathy

Pamela Fulton-Lewis

November 17, 2009

Condolences to the Strother Family. Mr. Strother always had a beautiful spirit. He is now present with the Lord...please find consolation knowing that. My prayers and thoughts are with you all.

Pamela Fulton-Lewis

Precious Brown

November 17, 2009

It was such a pleasure and blessing to have met and interacted with him if only for a short time. His beautiful voice and great smelling cologne will be greatly missed in the Virginia State Police halls.

Michael Gray

November 17, 2009

I want to express my condolences to the Strother Family at the loss of your loved one. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Gail Wheeler

November 17, 2009

I met Marty at Virginia State Police and he was such a pleasure to know....such a kind, sweet, hard-working man and a very talented singer also. It was such sad news to hear of his passing and way too soon...may he rest in peace till we meet again!

Taryn Drake

November 17, 2009

Mr. Marty, although I did not know you personally, I have so many memories of you while I was working with the Virginia Department of State Police. You were such a sweet person and your charismatic personality lifted my spirits. I will always remember how you came into the Firearms Division wearing your "Obama" cap, singing beautifully or humming a melody while you were doing your work. My heart goes out to your family and friends; I know you will truly be missed.
With deepest sympathy,
Taryn D. Drake

November 17, 2009

To The Family

You have my deepest sympathy for the loss of your loved one.

Mr. Marty, as some of us called him, was a kind and friendly person. I'll miss seeing him at VSP, singing with his beautiful voice and telling me, "Go home Terry".

May your fondest memories of him ease the pain in the coming days.

Terry Fuller

Brian Vaughan

November 17, 2009

My dear Martin
Its been a long time since Tom Sawyer and Jim made their way across the stage at Swift Creek, but your memories are forever in my heart. Please rest in peace my old friend and sing like the angels. Brian V

Nathaniel Williams

November 16, 2009

I remember our time at VUU, choir tours,laughing and joking. I was greatly saddened and shocked at Martin's passing. Alvin and the rest of the family, you have my deepest condolences, My prayers are with you.
Nathaniel Williams

William S. Creecy, III

November 16, 2009

To The Strother Family

I am deeply saddened to learn that Marty has joined the Heavenly Choir. I am also joyed to know that a magnificent voice and person has joined in giving everlasting praise.

I was blessed to be in the choir with Marty during my last years at VUU.

I pray that God send His Holy comforter to be with you during this time. Marty will be greatly missed.

Bill Creecy

Martha Farrow

November 16, 2009

Marty was such a good person. I came to know him at Virginia State Police. He was a very hard worker and a great singer. It is such a shock that he has passed. I will miss him greatly.

Melissa Gregory

November 16, 2009

Flo,

I want to extend my deepest sympathy to you and your family in the loss of your brother, Martin. I know that he was special by the fond way in which you spoke of him. May God bless you and keep you in the days to come.

Nyesha Keawmanee

November 16, 2009

Mr. Strother and Family-

I will miss your kind smile and willingness to help others. I was blessed to have had the opportunity to hear you play the piano and listen to your wonderful voice resonate in the auditorium and halls of Summer Hill Elementary. You will be greatly missed. I pray that your family will find comfort in knowing that you are with our heavenly Father and no longer in pain.

November 16, 2009

Flo,

I would like to express my deepest sympathy to you and your family in the loss of your brother, Martin. You always spoke so fondly of him. I know he will truly be missed. May God bless you and your family in the days to come.

Keeping you in thought and prayer,
Melissa Gregory

November 16, 2009

Flo,

I would like to extend my deepest sympathy in the loss of your brother, Martin. You always spoke so fondly of him and I know that you will truly miss him. May the memories you have sustain you and your family in the days to come. God bless you and keep you.

Melissa Gregory

Dr. Lutrelle Rainey

November 16, 2009

I too wish to join in with other VUU alumni and choir members, who were saddend by Martin's death. I not only sang with him at Union, I was on the faculty at Virginia State University when he came and served as a voice instructor. Martin was a dear friend and a confident and he will be missed.

Odell Hobbs needed a good bass so God sent death's angel to come to Richmond and get Martin as His special recruit to make sure that the bass line was perfect.

Rest well and your labor is not in vain.

Laura Wesley

November 16, 2009

With my deepest condolences and sympathy to the Strother family. We remember Martin as a fellow Unionite who loved to sing and to entertain us with his rich voice. Much love to each of you. Laura Thornton Wesley, VUU, class, '72

November 16, 2009

Marty and I were in the VUU Concert Choir...he was a terrific bass soloist and I am so sorry to hear of his passing. My condolences to his family.

Alfreda Bowers White
VUU '64-'68

Ashley Presnell

November 16, 2009

I want to give my sincere condolences to Marty's family. I worked with Marty at the State Police and came to love him just like he was a part of my family. The last time I saw him he came in with smile on his face and said his typical "How you doing, boo?" and we talked for a while about him and how he was doing. He always told me he loved me before he left and that's the last thing that was said between us. He was such a wonderful person and always happy to be here. I know now he is watching over us singing as always and in a better place. I love you Marty and I'll always keep you in my heart. Keep on singing and I will see you again one day.

Sharon Kirksey

November 16, 2009

Martin will always be remembered through his music and his friendship with the people he loved.
May God strengthen the family through His love and surround you wtith His peace.
Sharon Patrick Kirksey

Robinette and Chalisa Tiller

November 16, 2009

Don't think of him as gone away -
His journey has just begun
Life holds many facets
The Earth is only one
Just think of him as resting
From the sorrows and the tears
In a place of warmth and comfort
Where there are no days and years
Think how he must be wishing
That we could know today
How nothing but our sadness
can really pass away
And think of him as living
In the hearts of those he touched
For nothing loved is ever lost-
And he was loved so much.

Stephanie Johnson

November 16, 2009

Flo & Family,

I wish to express my deepest sympathy to you and your family. When there is love, any life is too short. With this love may you find comfort and peace and remember the joy that Martin has given those who love him.

Love & Blessings,

William Evans

November 16, 2009

Martin's work here on earth was completed. Now he is fulfilling God's plan. He was blessed with the gift of voice and used it in the body of Christ. I am thankful that after not seeing martin for several years, we ran in to each other recently. The days of Virginia Union's concert choir and his participation will never be forgotten.

Pray for strength and know that we loved him but God loved him more.

James Jackson

November 16, 2009

Flo, my sincerest condolences go out to you and your family on the loss of your brother. I know your heart is heavy, but just realize that he's at peace and comfort and no longer has to deal with the trials of this world. My prayers are with you.

Winnie Senty

November 16, 2009

To the family of Martin Strothers--
From all his fellow faculty members at Summerhill and Ruffin Road Elementary Schools we bid him a sad goobye but rejoice that he is in the arms of his heavenly Father. He wonderful spirit, his many contributions to the staff and students, their love for him, his jaunty, high-energy walk will be with us forever. Every day I will raise my coffee cup to him and thank him for his contributions. He inspired me and everyone here every single day. He will be greatly missed and we will always remember his beautiful, resonant voice.

Lisa Edwards-Burrs

November 15, 2009

Marty will be sorely missed. I have so many wonderful memories - of his performances and our performances together; of his wit and cheerful demeanor; of his dedication to his students. What a gift he was to all of us. My prayers are with you all.

RAERUSSELLE GREEN

November 15, 2009

TO THE FAMILY OF THE LATE MARTIN STROTHER
FLORENCE, I WOULD LIKE TO SAY YOUR BROTHER WAS A GREAT FRIEND WITH A KIND HEART, HE ALWAYS HAD A KIND WORD AND A VOICE LIKE AN ANGEL. MAY YOU REST IN PEACE, AND TAKE YOUR PLACE IN GOD'S HEAVELY CHOIR. LOVE TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY FLORENCE... RAERUSSELLE RICHARDSON GREEN MLW CLASS OF 68'

November 15, 2009

Flo and Family, You have our sincere condolences with regard to the loss of your brother Martin. It is my prayer that you will be comforted as you prepare to say goodbye and that God will keep you in his loving care. May the many memories of times spent with your brother keep him close to you in the days ahead. My prayers will be with you. God bless you and your family.

Linda and Keith Brown, Richmond, Va.

J Maupin Coley

November 15, 2009

Dear Family:
We know that words can not fill the void from the loss of your love one but I wish to share my heartfelt expression of sympathy as a former co-worker and friend with fondest memories!

Laurie and Ernestine

November 15, 2009

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

Janice Braggs

November 15, 2009

A great friend and bass singer has gone. But heaven will be rejoicing with your tunes up there. You will be sorely missed!
Sincerely,
Janice Braggs,
Classmate and choir member

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How to support Martin's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

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Estate Settlement Guide

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How to Write an Obituary

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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Ways to honor Martin Strother's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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