Obituary of Jean Bernie Strong

JEAN BERNIE STRONG August 11, 1924 – January 10, 2016 Goshen, NY Jean Strong, 91, of Goshen passed away with her family by her side on January 10, 2016 at the Glen Arden Health Care Center. She was the daughter of the late Sinclair and Helen Nash Soons. Jean grew up on the Soons Orchard farm, the family's orchard and then dairy farm in New Hampton. Her father hybridized an apple in 1924 that he called "Lady Jean" after his young daughter and it is still sold at the farm. Jean was a graduate of Goshen Central School and the Packard Business School in New York City. She worked for The Texas Co. (Texaco) in New York City until she married William (Bill) Strong in 1947. They resided on the family homestead, the former Oak Ridge Farm, in Goshen. Bill was the sixth generation to operate the farm. Her life centered around her family as well as extending help to friends and causes. Jean was a long-time member of the First Presbyterian Church, serving as a treasurer of the Women's Association and volunteering for many events. She was a founding member and officer of the Goshen Area Resources Association and, later, a member of Orange Environment, receiving a "Lifetime Achievement Award". Jean loved to garden and was very knowledgeable about antiques and interior design. Jean is survived by her daughters, Katharine Jorgensen and her husband, Dennis, and Ann Blake; three grandchildren, Jason Blake and his wife, Jennifer, Ashley Nelms and her husband, Chris, and Jessica Telgheder; a great-grandchild, Grace Blake; her brother, Art Soons and his wife, Sandy; and loved nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 67 years, Bill Strong; daughter, Bonnie Telgheder Williamson; and two sisters, Lois Porro and Alice Shields. A private graveside service will be held for the family. There will a celebration of life at the First Presbyterian Church in Goshen on Saturday, February 13, at 12:30 p.m. Arrangements are with Donovan Funeral Home in Goshen. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, the First Presbyterian Church of Goshen or a charity of one's choice. The family wishes to thank the phenomenal caregivers at the Glen Arden Health Care Center. You will be greatly missed, Mom/Grandma. You truly lived up to your nickname of "Lady Jean". Arrangements under the care of the Donovan Funeral Home, Inc., Goshen. To leave the family a condolence please visit www.donovanfunerals.com