Doris Strong

Born in Columbus on December 14, 1944, Doris was the daughter of Marmion and Mary (Barton) Purdin. She grew up to be many things—an accomplished bowler (good enough to earn a place in the Miami Valley Bowling Hall of Fame), first woman on the Hunter Youth Recreation Association board, and someone who never turned down a little friendly competition—but her favorite role, by far, was being “Mom” and “Grandma/NaNa.”

If there was a game, a recital, or anything involving her grandkids, Doris was there—cheering loudly, proudly, and probably telling someone nearby just how amazing her family was. That was her joy.

She shared 65 years of marriage with her husband, Neil, whom she married on May 28, 1961—a partnership full of memories, laughter, and a whole lot of life lived side by side.

While her passing leaves a deep space in the hearts of those who love her, there’s also comfort in knowing she’s been reunited with those she missed most—especially her son, George. After so many years apart, that long-awaited hug feels like a moment worth holding onto.

Doris leaves behind a big, loving crew who will carry her spirit with them every day: her husband Neil; her children Tony (Tracy) Strong and Melissa (Matthew) Davis; her grandchildren Tyler (Olivia), Trevor (Tara), Tara “Tara Bell,” Regan (Noah), Sammy, Johnny, and JoJo; and her great-grandchildren Davis, Turner, Tatum, Jackson, and Teddy. She is also survived by her sister Christina (Bill) Gibson, brother-in-law Gene Viola, sister in law, Jinny Barton and many extended family members and dear friends.

She was also welcomed home by her parents; her son, George Strong; her brothers Richard Barton and Jerry Purdin; and her sister-in-law Mary Jo Viola.

Doris will be missed deeply—but she leaves behind countless stories, strong family roots, and a legacy of showing up, loving big, and cheering the loudest.

Visitation will be held on May 1, 2026 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m at Pennyroyal Baptist Church on 3733 Pennyroyal Rd, Franklin, OH 45005, a service to follow at the same location after the visitation.

In honor of Doris, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Diamond Blackfan Anemia Foundation.https://dbafoundation.org/donate-now/