OOLITIC – Geoffrey Ray Strange, 64, passed away Thursday, May 14, 2026, at his residence.
Born April 1, 1962, in Paoli, he was the son of Melvin Strange and Hazelene (Stidham) Hutton.
Geoffrey was a 1980 graduate of Orleans High School and worked in construction, doing drywall; and later working at Lowe’s. He enjoyed racing and woodworking. Geoffrey was a loving and fun uncle, affectionately known as “Uncle Papaw,” and loved joking around. He had a very big heart and enjoyed helping others.
Geoffrey was especially proud of his military career. A Marine Corps veteran, he was part of Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada, and the conflict in Beruit. His primary duty was a field radio operator, achieving the rank of Lance Corporal. There were many medals and commendations during this time, including: Good Conduct Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (x3), Certificate of Commendation, Meritorious Mast, and M-16 Rifle Marksman Badge.
Surviving are his siblings, Melanie (Ryan) King of Bedford, Joy (Kevin Ramsey) Herald of Bedford, Alisa (Ton Schellens) Strange of The Netherlands, Missy (Richard) Jackson of Corydon, and Chris (Krista) Fisher of New Salisbury; father, Melvin Strange; and the many nieces and nephews who he loved so much, Shea (Samantha) Overton of Bedford, Joshua (Geordan) Harris of Mitchell, Ashlynn (Ravyn) Needhamer of Bedford, Caitlin (Jack) Cross of Ohio, Jordan Bell of Bedford, and Nick (Katelyn) King of Mooresville.
His mother, Hazelene Hutton and stepmother, Sue Strange, preceded him in death.
Memorial service will be at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 19, at Chastain Funeral Home & Cremation Center. Military rites will be accorded by American Legion Post No. 250 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 9107.
The family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. until the service on Tuesday at the funeral home.
Memorial Donations: Bedford Men’s Warming Shelter
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