Obituary of Leroy James Stratton

Age 73, of Mt. Morris, died Sunday, September 7, 2014, at Genesys Regional Medical Center in Grand Blanc. The funeral service will take place 10:00am, Wednesday, September 10, 2014, at the Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services in Mt. Morris. Pastor Scott Davidson will officiate with burial to follow in Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly. Jim’s family will be present at the funeral home on Tuesday to receive friends from 1:00 pm until 8:00 pm. On Wednesday from 9:00 am until time of service at 10:00 am. Those desiring may consider memorial contributions to the American Lung Association. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Leroy “Jim” was born September 23, 1940, in Flint, Michigan, the son of Mr. & Mrs. Ray and Florence (Running) Stratton. Jim graduated from Beecher High School, Class of 1957. Jim proudly served in the United States Army for 2 years during the Vietnam War, receiving his honorable discharge on February 26, 1967 in St. Louis, Missouri. While serving his country Jim earned the Parachute Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Marksman (Rifle M16), Marksman (Rifle M14), Sharpshooter (Rifle M16), First Class Gunner. Jim worked in Skilled Trades for Flint Metal Fab for 33 years until retiring in 1997 and was a member of UAW Local #596. While attending a class reunion Jim would meet up with his high school crush, two months later, Jim and Patricia (Terrell) were united in marriage on October 5, 1996, at Hopewell Baptist Church in Flint. Left to cherish his memory are, wife Patricia; 11 children: Joe, Jimmy (Lisa), Jay (Sandra), Jen (Vadice), Steve (Jen), Tricia (Len), Sue (Roy), Mike, Rich, Jeff (Kim) and Julie (Mike); numerous joys of his life, grandchildren and great-grandchildren; three siblings: Wanda, Delores, Jerry; special friend and family dog, Marley. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the entire 3rd floor ICU staff at Genesys Regional Medical Center.