Jerrell Valentine Strait

Jerrell Strait, born on February 14, 1936, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2024, leaving a rich legacy of faith, family, and service. A proud Marine, Jerrell served his country from 1954-1958. He rose to the rank of Gunnery Sergeant, serving his country with honor at Camp Pendleton, California, and Okinawa, Japan. In 1958, he married Carol Ann Speir. He is survived by Carol Ann, his son Mark Alan, daughter Jerri-Lyn, her husband Paul Korth, daughter Stacie Danae, her partner Shelley, and three grandsons: Parker and his wife Joyan, Graham, and Garrett.
A devout Christian, Jerrell centered his life around his faith in Jesus, regularly attending church and living by his beliefs. He was known for his love of the outdoors, spending days fishing, target shooting, and sharing his passion with family and friends. A native of Tulsa, Oklahoma, he spent 20 years living in Orange County, California, moving to Oregon in 1979. He worked retail for most of his working life. He was a manager at Fedco in California and the Salvation Army. He worked at Meier & Frank and Macy's as their top salesman. He was a volunteer Fireman at the Goshen Fire Department. In retirement, he settled in Veneta, Oregon, where he found peace surrounded by nature and loved ones. In 1992, Jerrell ran for Mayor in Veneta, OR, and was admired in his community. Jerrell's legacy lives on through His wife, children, and three grandsons, whom he adored and to whom he passed down his values and zest for life.
Jerrell was the youngest of seven children. He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter Thomas Henry and Ethel, brothers Henry Junior, Bobie Gene, Joe (JW), Billie, and two sisters, Delvena and Norma.
Jerrell will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for his devotion to God and country, his humor, and the steadfast love he showed his family and friends. His memory remains a cherished inspiration to all who knew him.
A viewing will be held at Sunset Hills Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 19th, 2024 at 10:00am followed by a Funeral Service with Graveside Committal & Reception at 11:00 am.