Henry Llywellen Strange entered this world on March 16, 1949, the beloved son of Leroy and Joan (Bardasar) Strange, both of whom preceded him in death. From childhood, Henry was known for his curiosity, kindness, humor, and unshakable spirit—a combination of gifts that shaped the remarkable life he would go on to lead. He grew up in a large and loving family and graduated from Northern High School in June 1966, stepping proudly into adulthood with the determination that would guide him throughout his life.
A proud United States Marine, Henry served with honor in India Company, 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines during the Vietnam War. His courage was tested in the jungles of South Vietnam, where he led his fellow Marines through dangerous missions and formed bonds of brotherhood that endured for a lifetime. For his service and sacrifices, Henry received three Purple Hearts, a powerful testament to his bravery, resilience, and unwavering devotion to his country.
After returning home, Henry carried the same drive, confidence, and discipline into his civilian life. Though his formal education included only a few college courses, his ability to learn, adapt, and lead allowed him to build a successful career. He worked for Chrysler Corporation, served the State of Michigan as a Probation Officer with the Department of Corrections, and later spent 26 dedicated years as a United States Postal Service mail carrier until his retirement. Everywhere he worked, Henry was respected for his reliability, integrity, and genuine compassion.
Just as Henry believed deeply in hard work, he believed just as strongly in joy. He was a natural jokester, known for his quick wit, clever remarks, and unforgettable storytelling—able to lighten any room with his humor. Music was one of his greatest pleasures; whether singing around the house, dancing, or riding in the car, he filled every space with energy and laughter. His voice and his joy were gifts he shared freely.
On Monday, December 1, 2025, surrounded by the abiding love of his children, grandchildren, other family and friends. Henry’s spirit was set free from the suffering of this world.
He was preceded in death by his siblings: Charles Caldwell, Barbara Caldwell, Margaret “Peggy” Caldwell Singleton, Kay Adonna Jackson, Michael Strange Sr., and Caleb Strange.
Henry’s greatest pride was his large and beautiful family. His light and legacy lives on in his children: Gladzena Young; Sonya Strange; Willie Jones (Tsrheesh); Kenyetta Strange (Nina Ferguson); Tamiko Ogburn ( Joseph Ogburn); Skynavia (Oliver) Hunter; Courtney (Patrick) Kendrick; Maisha (Brandon) Sharp, Brandi Richmond, Jamea Richmond-Edwards (Geoffrey) and Farrad Richmond (preceded in death).
He also leaves behind a host of adoring grandchildren—including Shatonia, Natashia, Desjha, Deanna, Larry, D’Angelo, Kyron, Demetris, Dominique, Christian, Myles, Anaya, Liana, Layla, Cameron, LaNiece, Deanna, Lamar, Brian, Lazell, Jason, Aaron, Dimen Isikwe and Skylar—and many great-grandchildren, cousin – Joanne Nicholson, nieces – Lisa Singleton, Kelly Jackson, nephew – Steve Jackson, great nieces, great nephews; great great nieces and nephews; god children Milton Jr., Darren and Shareese Penson. In all,
Henry was blessed with 21 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren who brought endless joy to his days. Henry’s legacy extends even further to the Vietnam heroes who served beside him—brothers forged not by blood, but by sacrifice and unwavering loyalty. Their bond remained unbroken throughout the years, and they, along with Henry’s cherished childhood friends, will forever hold his memory close.
Henry Llywellen Strange will be remembered for his warm smile, his humor, decorated service to his country, and the deep, unconditional love he poured into his family. Though he will be profoundly missed, the impact of his life will be felt for generations—carried in his stories, laughter, the legacy of love and strength he leaves behind.
His memory will be cherished always
Henry L. Strange Marine Purple Heart Hero
Henry “Doc” Strange made his final change of station to the “Big Sky Firebase” on December 1st. He joined my squad in November 1967 at just 18 and earned his first Purple Heart six weeks later in an ambush that hit most of our platoon. He returned to duty, earning a second Purple Heart at Khe Sahn in June 1968, and a third that September, which finally sent him to a hospital in Japan. Despite multiple wounds, he always chose to stay with his Marines.
After the Corps, Henry spent many dedicated years with the U.S. Postal Service in Detroit. He was courageous, loyal, and unforgettable. Hard to believe it’s been 57 years since we “ran through the jungle”
together. Semper Fi, Devil Dogs.
—James Lockwood
ONE OF MY CLEAREST MEMORIES OF HENRY IS FROM OUR TIME IN VIETNAM. IN A PHOTO FROM
OUTSIDE CA LU, HE AND I STAND WITH TWO VILLAGE CHILDREN WHO GREETED US AS WE
PROVIDED BASIC MEDICAL CARE. THEIR SHY SMILES BROUGHT A MOMENT OF LIGHT TO A
DIFFICULT TIME.
HENRY OFTEN TALKED ABOUT THAT SIMPLE KINDNESS—IT REFLECTED THE COMPASSION AND
STEADINESS HE CARRIED THROUGHOUT HIS LIFE.
PAUL LANDRY
I SERVED WITH STONEY IN VIETNAM IN 1968, AND HE WAS ONE OF THOSE RARE
PEOPLE WHO MADE A LASTING IMPACT. HE TOOK US NEW GUYS UNDER HIS WING
AND BROUGHT MUCH-NEEDED LAUGHTER TO TOUGH DAYS.
I WAS WOUNDED IN JUNE ’68, AND A COUPLE DAYS LATER STONEY WAS TOO. WE RECOVERED
TOGETHER, AND LATER, AFTER I WAS SENT TO JAPAN FOR SURGERY, I WOKE UP TO FIND HIM IN
THE BED NEXT TO ME—WOUNDED AGAIN JUST AFTER I WAS.
STONEY WAS A TRUE FRIEND AND BROTHER IN ARMS. I MISS HIM DEEPLY. GOD BLESS HIM AND
HIS FAMILY—HE’LL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED AS A HERO
MIKE HEARN
TRIBUTES FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS
GLADZENA YOUNG
Daddy,
Thank you for stepping forward, leaving the past behind, and filling my life with love that healed old wounds. You gave me memories I will carry forever—the laughter, the visits, the endless phone calls—each one a gift, each one a piece of my heart. Being your firstborn, I will never forget the way you made me feel seen, cherished, and safe. Your love has shaped me, healed me, and will stay with me always. Though you are gone, your light, your warmth, and the bond we shared will never fade. I love you, Daddy, now and forever.
Glad
SONYA STRANGE
Daddy, Daddy, My Hero,
You were an amazing father, a dedicated provider, and a hardworking man who I always knew loved me. They called me your twin, and I will truly miss our talks. I was still calling you my Daddy like a little girl, and you would call me babygirl—unless you were mad at me, then it was my full name: Sonya Marie Strange, lol. This loss is so hard for me, especially now that both of my parents are no longer here. But you left behind a beautiful family and memories that will last a lifetime. I love you always and forever, until we meet again.
Your Daughter, Sonya
KENYETTA STRANGE
Daddy,
I miss you already.
I know you are in a much better place, but losing you has left an emptiness that words can barely hold. You are the best man I have ever had in my life. Everything I learned from you—your strength, your kindness, your wisdom, and the way you lived with so much love—is priceless.
I love you with my whole heart.
Rest now, Daddy. And as you affectionately called me, YET will carry your love forever.
TAMIKO OGBURN
Man of Honor
Dad, it’s been one of life’s greatest blessings to share this world with you.
You set the gold standard for what it means to be a true “girl dad.” You faced every spider with intent & bravery, found creative ways to fix anything that broke, and never once hesitated to haul the moving truck—no matter how many times I promised, “this is the last move.” And let’s not forget your favorite hobby: intimidating every guy I ever dated. A man of many talents. But you also had your own brand of uncommon greatness. You took me to church, surprised me with flowers on Valentine’s Day, remembered Sweetest Day with candy, and treated the whole family out to dinner at least once a week. Dad, you were truly a rare gem—steady, kind, and quietly heroic in all the ordinary moments that became extraordinary because of you. Now, having completed your earthly assignment with honors, you’ve officially been promoted — to a position that’s quite literally out of this world.
Love you forever, Tamiko
COURTNEY KENDRICK
Dear Daddy,
James Baldwin went one said that suffering, though it often feels isolating, is our bridge we all suffer, but some of us are skilled at finding the cracks in our suffering that allow the light of hope to shine in. Throughout my life, I found you to be an expert at identifying those cracks and shifting the focus to the light magnum mistake. You were born soldier, strong, and quick to defend those done wrong, but your most potent and effective weapons always wear your humor and compassion. In the past few days, many emotions have come to the surface and many questions asked. I know you didn’t wanna go, but I also know your body had done all it could sit torn now between the deepest sorrow and grief I’ve ever felt and indescribable joy. For 44 years I had the honor of calling you my father, the ability to seek your wisdom, to enjoy your unmatched humor, and to be seen and embraced as my full self.
I don’t know how I am going to navigate a world void of you presence, your guidance, and your light but I am searching inside myself to find every measure of those gifts deposited in me so I can show up for people the way you always have. I love you deep-always,
Courtney Marie – your small child
DEANNA YOUNG
Dear Daddy,
Today I honor my grandfather — a man whose love often showed up in quiet, steady ways. We didn’t have a close relationship, and we didn’t share many personal moments, but one thing I always knew was that he remembered me. Every birthday card, every Christmas card… those gestures were his way of reaching out, reminding me that I was a part of him. What I’ve learned from my cousins is that he cared deeply about keeping our family together. He was adamant about unity, about showing up for each other, about not letting life pull us apart. And in his passing, that message hit even harder.
His transition became a wake-up call — a moment that bridged gaps between some of us and pulled our family closer in ways we didn’t expect. Even from a distance, he left a mark: consistency, responsibility, and a quiet kind of love that didn’t need big speeches or loud moments. His legacy now lives in the way we’re choosing to reconnect, to stand together, and to honor the family he helped build. Rest peacefully, Grandpa. Thank you for remembering me, for remembering all of us, and for giving our family a reason to come back to one another.
SKYNIAVA HUNTER
I know my GOD love me because he blessed me with you as my DAD. You claimed me as your own and I am truly grateful for that. I will always cherish the special moment in my life when you gave me away on my wedding day as the father who gives away his daughter. I will never forget the words you told me “You are my child”. I am so proud to be known as a daughter of Henry Strange and love you so much for that honor. Till we meet again DAD,
I LOVE YOU, Sky
NINA FERGUSON
Daddy Henry,
Thank you for being such a special part of my life. I miss you so much already—especially our mornings together and bringing you your coffee. You always called me Nina Bina, and hearing that from you made me feel loved in a way I’ll never forget. You were the definition of a man with true swag—real strength, real style, and a heart that touched everyone around you. I know you’re in a better place now, watching over us. And while you’re up in heaven, make sure you stay on the Detroit Lions’ head, just like you always did. LOL. I love you so much.
Rest now, Daddy Henry. Your Nina Bina will carry your love forever.
MILTON PENSON
Henry was a good friend of my, starting when we met in high school in 1963 . He was close to my wife and family like a brother who will truly be missed.
Milton Penson
KYRON ANDREWS
In time.
The air is still my eyes are swollen I cannot believe my grandpa was chosen. I sit and I pray and pray that he’s joking, maybe he’ll pop up and words will be spoken. I sit and I stare and stare from afar, and the image I see cuts deeper than a scar. Sadness turn to anger as reality hits and just before we snap I hear the clock tick. Frozen in time as the clock strikes 11 the hero in this room has gone to heaven. Frozen in time I stand and I wait not knowing what to do, the doctor comes in at 11:32. Frozen in time the air has left, my grandad has taken his last breath. Frozen in time as the room clears, time resumes with cries and tears. Grandad is gone and it’s not a dream, but where he is headed is more serene. Everything happens for a reason they say, I’m just glad I could be with you that day. Your family loves you that I do know maybe frozen in time we could tell you so.
SHATONIA STRANGE
Dear Granddad,
I will miss your stories, your strength, and your warmth-Thank you, Granddad for the love and legacy you leave behind. As we say goodbye to a grandfather whose wisdom, kindness, and laughter will live on in our hearts forever ❤ Love you endlessly.
your oldest granddaughter Shatonia🫶🏽
NATASHIA STRANGE
It has been a lovely 36 years having you as a grand father (papa)! Knowing my mother had you as her father protector and friend means the world to me . Thank you for your service, heart and time I appreciate you and love you so much!
Enjoy Paradise
DEANNA COATES – MERRELL
Letter to my papa – when you took your last breath I heard a whisper that instantly brought life into me every day it’s hard knowing your not here physically but God has you now which brings me peace.
Love your granddaughter Deanna
DARREN YOUNG II
Grandpa Henry, you are the only grandfather I have ever known. In a world filled with grandmothers, you always made me feel like I belonged. Even across the distance, you were always near. From childhood into adulthood, your love was steady and sincere.
You remembered every birthday. Every trip to Detroit, you always came to get us. Not a holiday went by without a card or a call. Even being far away, you made sure to stay involved. And even at my lowest points, you remained consistent—never wavering in your love. As long as I live, you will always be remembered.
Love you, Grandpa Henry.
DANGELO ANDREWS
Granddad Henry passed away on 12/1, leaving a space in our lives that can never be filled. I loved him deeply, and I miss him more than words can say. He was a steady, loving presence—someone who listened, guided, and made the world feel a little safer just by being in it. His kindness, his stories, and the warmth he brought to every moment will stay with us always. Though he is gone, the love he gave lives on in our hearts and in the memories we will forever cherish.
Love Dangelo Andrews Head Hug
DESJHA MOORE
Dear Papa,
You Were My Last Living Grand Parent. It Hurt My Heart Knowing You
Gone But I Know You Are In A Better Place, I Will Always Love You
Unconditionally! One Thing About Grandaddy He Never Forgot Anybody
Birthday He Had A Mind Like Gold. Papa Was Always A Great Provider
Who Held His Family Down Until He Couldn’t No More. I Forever Cherish The Casino Moments Together The Laughter And The Hugs You Will
Forever Be In My Heart -Desjha-
GREER TROLLEY
I didn’t get much time with him but when I did, it was nothing but love and joy. He let me scold my brother at the family reunion & laughed & said it was the right thing to do. he loved me and welcomed me even though we didn’t meet until my granny passed. He reminds me so much of his sister my grandma. Now they are happily reunited and without pain forever. I’ll see you later uncle Henry I love you
DOMINIQUE SMITH
My uncle/ grandad Henry was a man who never asked for praise, but gave so much of himself to others. His wisdom came in small, everyday moments. Stories shared, lessons taught, and love shown without needing recognition. Losing him leaves an empty space, but the memories he created continue to guide us. I’m grateful for every moment we had, and I will carry his strength in my blood line.” He wasn’t only a great marine to our country. A son to a mother. A father to child or a Grandad /great uncle to our younger generation! But a patriarch to our family
CHIQUITA
“This princess phone was a birthday gift from the 1980s from
my best friend forever. Holding it now brings back all the laughter, secrets, and late-night talks we shared. I will always treasure the memories and the love behind this gift. Rest in paradise, my dear friend—your light lives on in my heart.”
SHARYNE WILSON
MY DAD
If I could write a story, it would be the greatest ever told a story of a kind and loving father who had a heart of gold. If I could write a million pages, I would still be unable to express Just how much I love and miss you every single day, Dad. I will always remember everything you taught me. I’m hurt, but I won’t be sad, because I know you ’ll send me the answers, and you will always be my dad.
I love you always and forever. You will always and forever be in my heart. I know you’re looking down on me from Heaven…Thank you for sharing your love with me. You always treated me like your own daughter, and I will forever honor you for that thank you for being that dad for me. I love you, and you will forever be missed. To all my sisters—
I love you. You have helped me through some tough times, and I appreciate each of you for being right in my corner when I needed you.
Thank you for checking on me, for being my sisters, for being my family. I couldn’t ask for a better, more loving family. I just want to say thank you— I love you all. I am truly blessed to have you.
