James Strong Obituary
James Archie Strong, age 86, passed away peacefully at his home on December 21, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was born on April 2, 1939, in Liberty, Kentucky.
James grew up in Liberty, Kentucky, and Fillmore, Indiana, where he laid the foundation for a life devoted to faith, family, and service. A high school graduate, he answered a lifelong calling to ministry and faithfully served as a pastor for more than 50 years. Throughout his ministry, he shepherded multiple congregations and touched countless lives through preaching, teaching, and compassionate leadership. He most recently served as Pastor of The Worship Center, where he ministered for 15 years. James also honorably served his country in the National Guard.
He was preceded in death by his father, Bechel D. Strong; his mother, Dollie G. Strong; his brother, Robert “Bob” Strong; his sister, Gloria Strong Lovell; and his grandson, Brian Strong.
James is survived by his beloved wife of 19 years, Jonda Strong. He is also survived by six children: James A. Strong, Pamela A. Barrett, Bruce A. Strong, Michael A. Strong, Sherri A. Deckard, and Jonathan A. Strong, and by their mother and his former wife, Patricia Covert Strong; 17 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, who were a great joy in his life. Additional survivors include his sisters, Glenda Bliss and Bonnie Hart, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation and memorial services will be held on December 30, 2025, at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals, & Receptions located at 925 E. Hanna Ave., Indianapolis, Indiana. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, followed by a memorial service at 12:00 p.m., conducted by Rev. Geneva Eggers. James will be laid to rest at Fillmore Cemetery in Putnam County, Indiana, at 2:30 p.m.
James Archie Strong will be remembered for his unwavering faith, servant’s heart, and dedication to spreading God’s love through a lifetime of ministry. His legacy lives on through his family and the many lives he touched.
To share a fond memory of James or leave a condolence for the family, please sign the guest book below.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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