Constance Stong

SLINGERLANDS - Connie Loving Strong died peacefully at St Peter's Hospital on Friday, February 8, 2013 surrounded by her family. Born on August 31, 1921 in Atlanta, GA to the late Robert Courtenay and Anna Belle (Cassell) Loving, she was the youngest of the five "Loving" sisters. She spent her youth in Philadelphia where she met her husband, the late William B. Strong. After 59 years of "a wonderful life with Bill", she moved to Beverwyck where she enjoyed the company of many friends, playing bridge and being an active participant in the many programs and trips offered. She was a strong, principled woman who vigorously advocated for her beliefs to which the many recipients of her firm letters will attest. Well traveled and well read, she served as an inspiration for us to pursue life long learning. She enjoyed gardening, jewelry making, the arts and needlework. For her, volunteering was considered a way of life. In 2009, she proudly received a Lifetime Achievement Award for volunteerism, which included the Red Cross, AIHA museum, NYS Theatre Institute, Five Rivers Nature Center and Jump Start reading program at Glenmont Grade School among many others. She was a past President of the Bethlehem Garden Club and Delmar Newcomers Club as well as a member of the Delmar Progress Club and Embroiders Guild. Connie is survived by her sons Steven Strong (Lori) of Menands, Kenneth Strong of Charlottesville, VA and daughter Connie S. Wilbur (Harry) of Glenmont; her grandchildren, Lisa Acquario (Stephen), Laura, Jennifer, and Courtenay Strong (Natasha), Amy O'Hara (Shaun), and Andrew Wilbur; 6 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband Bill, Connie was predeceased by her four sisters and daughter-in-law, Joanie Strong. Dearly loved, we will miss her beautiful smile and all the laughter we shared together. A graveside service with the family will be held at a future date. Contributions in her memory may be made to the American Red Cross, 33 Everett Road, Albany, NY 12205.