Monty Stratton

Monty Stratton, a beacon of service and faith, passed away on October 28, 2025, at the age of 75, in Troy, Ohio. Born on February 7, 1950, in Milan, Indiana, to his parents Carl & Bessie (Gabbard) Stratton, Monty was a man whose life was defined by dedication to his family, his country, his students, and his church.

Monty's journey began in the small town of Milan, Indiana, but his aspirations and achievements reached far beyond its borders. A proud graduate of Taylor High School's class of 1968 in Cleves, Ohio, he went on to pursue higher education with vigor and passion. He earned his bachelor's degree from Cumberland College in Williamsburg, Kentucky, and later, his master's degree from the University of Dayton.

On August 29, 1970, Monty married the love of his life, Wanda Sue (Van Hook) Stratton, in a beautiful ceremony at her grandfather’s house in London, Kentucky. Together, they built a life filled with love, music, and faith. Their partnership was a testament to their unwavering commitment to each other and their shared values.

Monty's professional life was marked by a 36-year tenure at Milton-Union Junior High, where he began teaching 7th-grade English and later 8th-grade social studies. His dedication to education and the impact he had on his students will be remembered for generations to come.

A man of deep faith, Monty was a longtime member of the Grace Baptist Church in Ludlow Falls. He served as an assistant pastor, a song leader, and relished the opportunity to teach Sunday school. His love for the Lord was evident in every aspect of his life, and he found great joy in studying the Bible.

Monty's commitment to service extended to his country as well, with over 20 years in the Air Force Reserves. His patriotism and sense of duty were unwavering, and he instilled these values in all who knew him.

An avid Ohio State football fan, Monty's enthusiasm for the game was infectious. But perhaps his greatest joy was singing with his wife and daughters, a harmonious expression of the love and unity that defined their family. Described as faith-filled, selfless, and loving, Monty's legacy is one of selfless service and boundless love. He lived his life as an example of how to serve others with grace and humility. Monty will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. His was a life well-lived, and his memory will be cherished forever.

He will be missed and remembered by his loving wife Wanda Sue Stratton; daughters and sons-in-law Angela & Michael Kendig of Covington, Amy & Nathan Duling of Tipp City, Katie Stratton & Matt Clemmer of Troy, Matthew Davis of Oakwood; grandchildren Aaron Davis, Austin, Jude, & Poppy Duling, Emma & Ethan Kendig, Phoebe & Sybil Clemmer, Max Blair; great grandchildren Isaac, Arwen, August, Asher; sister and brother-in-law Candy & Fred Anness of Morrow; sister-in-law Chris Stratton. He was preceded in death by his daughter Robyn Davis and his brother Revfo Stratton.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM Saturday, November 8, at the Grace Baptist Church, 2500 OH-48, Ludlow Falls. Interment in Old Union Cemetery, Ludlow Falls will be held at a later date. The family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 PM Friday at the church. Arrangements are in care of Hale-Sarver Family Funeral Home, West Milton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grace Baptist Church- Youth Center Fund. Memories may be shared with the family online at www.hale-sarver.com

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