Ora Lee Strong

Ora Lee Smith was born on October 13, 1947, to Willie Lee Smith and Ora Cle Bumgarner in Raleigh, North Carolina. In 1951, she and her parents relocated to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her father worked for the U.S. Steel Mill, while her mother was employed as a housekeeper and cook. Although Ora didn’t complete high school, she was dedicated to providing the best life possible for her children. After having her kids, she returned to earn her G.E.D. from Connelley Vocational High School, graduating in 1988. During this time, she also worked at various places, including Hope Lane Market, The Hoagie Castle, St. Joseph Nursing Home, and S.D. Transit. In 1966, Ora married Leslie T. Strong, and together they had three children: Tonya Strong, Kelley Williams (Ernest), and Retina Cole (Roland). After their divorce, Ora married Lonnie N. Smith Jr. in December 1972 and had a son, Lonnie N. Smith III (Kalika). In 2007, Ora and Leslie reunited and remarried. Ora loved music, was a joy to be around, and enjoyed hosting gatherings for family and friends. She was known for her cooking, her sense of humor, and above all, her generosity. On August 28th, 2024, at the age of 76, Ora Strong passed away. She leaves behind 5 grandsons, 5 granddaughters, 12 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends who will deeply miss her. Everyone whose life she touched will feel her absence. We find comfort in knowing that with her faith in Jehovah, she knows she will see us again. John 3:16-36 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ora Lee Strong, please visit our floral store.