Dr. James (Jim) W. Strobel, a resident of The Villages since May of 2013 died January 8 in a car accident in Nassau county FI. He was 80. James Strobel was born and grew up in Wintersville OH. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Botany from Ohio University, and while at Ohio University he earned the Phi Beta Kappa key. He earned his PhD in Plant Pathology from Washington State University. Dr. Strobel spent his career in research and academia. He held posts at the University of Florida from 1959 to 1974, including holding the chair of the Department of Ornamental Horticulture. From 1974 until 1977 he served at North Carolina State University as chair of the Horticulture Department. Dr Strobel served as the 11th president of Mississippi University for Women, in Columbus MS from 1977 – 1988. While at Mississippi University for Women Dr. Strobel instituted the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science, a residential program for high-achieving high school students. He also established the university’s Centennial Scholars Program for superior students, and supported the establishment of the Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center. Dr. Strobel directed the Universities Center in Jackson MS from 1988 – 1990. From 1990 – 1998 Dr. Strobel served as president of Erskine College in Due West Sc. While at Erskine Dr. Strobel oversaw the construction of the Center for the Arts, a Science complex and sports complex. Upon retirement Jim and his wife Donna enjoyed time living on Lake Greenwood SC, and Lake Gaston VA, before relocating to The Villages. Jim enjoyed fishing, golf, and boating. He was an avid and accomplished gardener and designed beautiful plant and floral arrangements. For his entire life Jim loved and served the lord. Jim is survived by Donna Strobel, his wife of 58 years, daughter Cynthia, son Jay, his two brothers Robert Strobel of Cadiz, Ohio,Darryl Strobel of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania and his sister Cheryl Connery of St Paul, Minnesota and grandchildren Trey, Courtney, Jarrett, Annalee, Dana and Jacob.
A Celebration of Life for Dr James W Strobel will be held at Hope Lutheran Church, The Villages, Florida on Sunday January 26, 2014 at 2:30PM with Pastor Jon Marc McLean and Pastor Mindy Douglas officiating. In lieu of flowers please donate to the scholarship in his name at Erskine College, Due West South Carolina or at Mississippi University for Women, Columbus, MS.
Condolences may be left at www.beyersfuneralhome.com
Beyers Funeral Home and Crematory, Lady Lake/The Villages, FL in charge of arrangements.