Date of Service:
April 18, 2025
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William Ralph Strother Jr., “Bill” of Vero Beach, Florida, passed away at home on April 10, 2025. Born on January 30, 1955, in Detroit, he was the son of William “Ralph” Sr. and Joyce Strother.
William was a loving husband, father and grandfather known for his positive attitude, humor and joy he brought to his family. He graduated high school at Howe Military Academy in Howe, Indiana where he played soccer and ran on the track team and then earned a degree in Communications from Oakland University in 1976. After college, he moved to Charlotte, North Carolina and lived there for 47 years. Upon retirement, he moved to Vero Beach, Florida.
He had an exceptional career in sales and marketing working at the companies Hoechst Celanese, Clariant and Pam Fastening Technology. He had a genuine passion for sales, building strong relationships and always growing professionally. His enthusiasm was infectious and clearly felt by both colleagues and clients. He traveled around the world for his career and enjoyed seeing places and meeting people.
William is survived by his loving wife of 24 years together, Silvia Strother; his seven children Laura (Brian) Carver, Suzanne (Tom) Griffith, Meredith (Ryan) Owens, Caroline (Eric) Hill, Emily (Shawn) Teague, William Ralph Strother III “Rafael” and Benjamin Strother; his ten grandchildren, Cole, Austin, Reese, Wells, Kelsey, Reagan, Amelia, Blair, Finley, and Lucy; and his sisters Carol Petrea and Harriet Schram. He was preceded in death by his parents William “Ralph” Sr. and Joyce Strother.
William lived an active lifestyle, loved the outdoors and listening to music. He liked to run, bike, swim, ski, and roller blade. He participated in several marathons and triathlons. He enjoyed traveling to mountains and beaches throughout his life.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025, at Cornerstone Christian Church in Vero Beach, Florida with a reception at 1pm followed by a service at 2pm.
Memorial contributions may be made to Cornerstone Christian Church, 5950 12th St., Vero Beach, Florida 32966.
William will be remembered for his kind heart, encouragement, laughter, enthusiasm for living a full life and love for his family. His memory will be cherished forever.
Arrangements are by Thomas s. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2025 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Millie Salinas - Friend
April 12, 2025, 9:16 pm
Silvi querida. Mi más sentido pésame. Que triste noticia amiga. Que descanse en Paz. Te abrazo fuerte a ti y a tus hijos
Cindy V Barrera - Friend
April 12, 2025, 9:24 pm
William was a shining example of an extraordinary friend and neighbor, offering sage advice and valuable insights that profoundly impacted my husband. His remarkable capacity to inspire others, transforming their aspirations into reality, was a testament to his exceptional character. William’s unwavering enthusiasm and unbridled optimism made him a truly special individual. His memory will be treasured eternally, and our prayers are with his family during this difficult time. Silvia, Benji, and Rafael, we regard you as family and share in your sorrow.
Manuel and Lidia - Friends
April 13, 2025, 1:59 am
Silvia and his family are truly sorry to hear about Willy’s passing. It’s a heartfelt experience, as we shared this past year with him and with you. I’ll never forget when I’ arrived and ran to greet me.
We’re truly sad.
Pamela Escalona e Ignacio Villena - Amigos
April 13, 2025, 4:05 am
Mi querida amiga Silvia, Rafy y Benji sentimos en el alma su pérdida, se fue, un gran esposo, padre y amigo, en nuestros corazones quedan los días que pasamos junto a William y ustedes en Charlotte, su amor por la cocina Chilena, sus clases de inglés, gracias a él Ignacio aprendió mucho el idioma cada vez que ambos salian de compras o simplemente a pasear, no imaginan como un niño atesora eso en su corazón, por eso nuestra tristeza al saber que William dejo este mundo terrenal a sido abrumadora, cuando nuestro Señor decide llevar a una buena persona a su lado, quedan muchos corazones sufriendo, pero sé que él fue amado y cuidado hasta su último respiro por ti mi querida amiga, la distancia nos separa pero no el corazón, no lo olvides nunca y espero y le pido a Dios les de fuerza para pasar este tremendo dolor, aquí desde Chile Ignacio y yo les enviamos un tremendo abrazo lleno de amor y paz, te quiero mucho amiga…
Laura Carver - Daughter
April 13, 2025, 12:26 pm
What an outstanding Dad! He motivated and inspired all of his children to follow their dreams and love life. His unwavering support and consistent encouragement keep our spirits high. We will miss his laughter, happy attitude, and excitement for new adventures. Your love for all of us will always remain in our hearts.
Natasha Sieburg - Friend
April 13, 2025, 8:01 pm
Sorry, Silvia, I was shocked when I learned the bed news. With the amount of enthusiasm and optimism he had I was expecting him to live into late 90ties. He was genuinely kindhearted person and always had a reason to crack a good joke. He was helping people without expecting anything in return. I will always remember him joking around with a big smile on his face!