Willard Earl Strong

Willard Earl Strong

Of Deposit, NY

Willard Earl Strong, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, at UHS Wilson Hospital in Johnson City, New York. Born on October 24, 1940, in Deposit, NY.

Willard graduated from Deposit Central High School and soon after answered the call of duty, serving honorably in the United States Force from 1958 to 1961.

In his early career, Willard worked alongside his father at W.R. Strong and Son in the bluestone quarry business. Demonstrating both entrepreneurial spirit and technical skill, he went on to open and operate his own chainsaw repair, sales, and service shop—Willard Strong Sales and Service. His expertise and friendly demeanor earned him the trust and respect of many customers. Later, he continued to share his talents at Oliver’s Sales and Service in Windsor, NY, until his retirement.

Willard loved the great outdoors, good food, good friends and Yankee’s baseball.

He shared 64 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Clella Strong. Willard was a proud father to Kris, Karen & Cork, and Will Jr. & Jen, and a doting grandfather to Holly & Steve Grant, Heidi Faulkner (Maria ScIcchitano), Andrew Alise, Billy Strong, and Tommy Strong, his sister and brother-in-law, Evelyn & Martin Baker, as well as his sister-in-law Marylin Collar. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.

Willard was preceded in death by his parents, Earl W. & Ellen Azelia (Frank) Strong, and his sister and brother-in-law, Joan & Samuel Swart.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Chris Zacharias, Eastern Broome EMS, and Superior EMS for their compassionate assistance.