Mary Strawn

Mary Ellen Strawn February 16, 1928 – January 2, 2025

Mary Ellen Strawn, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully in her home in Cerritos, California, on January 2, 2025, at 10:53 PM, at the age of 96. She was born in Montgomery, Alabama, on February 16, 1928, to Henry Clayton Roton and Lillie Ellen Parden Roton. Mary was the last surviving member of her generation, having been preceded by her cherished husband, L.B. Strawn, who passed away on March 31, 2016.

Mary graduated from high school in 1946 and married her "soldier boy," L.B. Strawn, on February 22, 1947, in Montgomery, Alabama. Their love story continued for nearly 70 years, marked by faith, devotion, and a shared life in Southern California after they moved there in September 1947. Together, they raised four children: June, Stephen, David (Suzanne), and Mark.

Mary and L.B. became Christians in 1947 in Flat Rock, Michigan, and their faith was central to their lives. Mary was a dedicated member of the Rose Avenue Church of Christ in Bellflower, California, since the late 1950s, where she formed lasting friendships and was a faithful part of her church family.

Mary’s legacy continues through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren:

Grandchildren: Jennifer Pluimer (Chris), Summer Childre, Michael Childre, Andrew Childre (Anna), Courtney Strawn, Laura Dietrich (Sonny), Lindsey Bockoven (Andrew), Valerie Blomquist (Andrew), Tyler Strawn (Molly-pending), Daniel Strawn (Erica), Kristen Neff (Steven), and Ashley Strawn (Daniel).

Great-Grandchildren: Troy Pluimer, Love Forte, Miracle Casey, Malachi Casey, Thomas Power III, Kinley Power, Brooklyn Dietrich, Brittin Dietrich, Jackson Dietrich, Sutton Dietrich, Reagan Blomquist, Theodore Blomquist, Harrison Blomquist, Bailey Neff, and Declyn Neff.

Mary’s love for her family was boundless. She delighted in rocking and singing to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, with her favorite songs being Tell Me Why The Stars Do Shine and Jesus Loves Me. Her infectious joy and deep love for her family were felt by everyone around her.

Those who knew Mary were aware of her love for the color pink, a reflection of her vibrant spirit. She saw God's beauty in everything around her and enjoyed pointing out the flowers, trees, and the wonder of nature. Her favorite tree was the Mimosa, with its pink blooms and fluffy leaves, which reminded her of her childhood when she pretended they were powder puffs and bacon.

Mary was a wonderful listener and confidant, offering wisdom, encouragement, and a kind heart to many. Her quick wit and warm, loving presence will be deeply missed.

Mary was preceded in death by her sister, Betty Jane Bradley, and grandson John Spain. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a host of friends who cherished her.

A funeral service will be held at Forest Lawn, Cypress, California, on January 17, 2025 9:00am, at 4471 Lincoln Avenue, Cypress, CA 90603.