Merle Francis Strole, 90, of Orange died on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Lavender Hills, in Orange. He was born on March 15, 1934, in Shenandoah, Va. and was the son of the late Harry David Strole and Gertrude Lucas Strole Lott. He is predeceased by his wife Patricia May Strole; a daughter Terry S. Bradshaw; a son-in-law John Bradshaw; a brother-in-law Billy Lovett; and a grandchild Sarah Robinson and her husband Nathan Robinson.

Merle was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church, American Legion Post 156, Masonic Lodge #285 of Arlington, and a U. S. Army Veteran. He was a retired salesman for the Coca Cola Company.

Merle is survived by a son David M. Strole of Richmond; four grandchildren Sarah Holzhalb, Sandy Kerner, David Strole II, and Susie Kerner; nine great grandchildren; a special friend Barbara Elmore of Orange,  and a sister Rebecca S. Lovett of Winchester.

A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, from 12:00 to 2:00 P.M. at the Preddy Funeral Chapel, Orange. Rev. Forest Porter and Pastor John Munnikhuysen will officiate. Inurnment will be on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at 12:00 Noon at Columbia Gardens in Arlington with military honors. Preddy Funeral Home of Orange is assisting the family.