James Wesley Strayer

James Wesley Strayer, 92 of Lake City, passed away on Saturday, October 30, 2021 at the North Florida Regional Medical Center in Gainesville.  Mr. Strayer was born in Maumee, Ohio, the third of four children, to the late Peter C. Strayer and Josephine Gerig Strayer.  He had been a resident of Lake City since 2018 and was previously a longtime resident of Live Oak.  Mr. Strayer served in the United States Navy from 1949 to 1953 and he earned his Master’s Degree from Florida State University in 1962.  He retired in 1995 with 30 years of service with the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranch and continued his service as a volunteer for many years following his retirement.  Mr. Strayer was very involved in the development programs with the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches around the state.  His life was focused on working with troubled youth and volunteering his time helping others in need.  He was preceded in death by his parents; three siblings, Hearld Strayer, John Strayer and Beulah Kenyon; and one grandson, Cameron James Taylor. 

Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Anna E. “Betty” Strayer, Lake City; two children, Jon Strayer (Terri), Live Oak and Suzanne Taylor , Lake City; son in law Scott Taylor, Lake City; three grandchildren, Branndon Taylor (Katie), Dayton, TN and Amelia Libby Brownfield (Brandan) and Matthew Taylor (Monika) all of Live Oak; three great-grandchildren, Bailey Ann Taylor, Cameron Taylor and Amelia Jane “Millie” Brownfield; and numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

Not only was he an advocate for youth in Florida but also served with many groups and committees advocating quality care for children across the entire country.

Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, November 6, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Hopeful Baptist Church with Dr. Billy Young, Senior Pastor officiating.  Interment will follow at Hopeful Baptist Cemetery.  Visitation with the family will be Friday evening from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to either the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches or the Hopeful Baptist Cemetery Fund, in memory of Mr. Strayer.  

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