Mrs. Lt. Colonel M. Jean Strain
(September 30, 1919—November 20, 2007)

Mrs. Lt. Colonel M. Jean Strain was promoted to Glory from Climax, N.C.

Martha Jean, one of Clarence and Mary Ditmer’s seven children, was born in Marietta, Ohio, to Salvation Army officer parents who served as exemplary role models. She gave her heart to the Lord at age 7 at the Wilmington, Del., Corps, and at age 17, heard God’s call to officership.

After serving as a sterling local leader in the Barberton, Ohio, Corps, Jean entered the New York Training College in 1939 as part of the Hold Fast session.

Commissioned in 1940, Jean served in Atlantic City, N.J.; Pottstown, Pa.; and, for nearly three years, as commanding officer at the Vine Street Corps in Philadelphia’s Skid Row area, before marrying Captain Robert G. Strain in January 1945.

The Strains held appointments throughout the Eastern and Central territories. In retirement, Jean was a dedicated soldier of the Clearwater, Fla., Corps, serving as a corps “shepherd” to young people. Her daughter, Robin, says, “My mother loved giving to others. She was always there for people.”

Jean is survived by her daughter, Robin J. Miles of Climax, N.C.; son, Jeffrey R. Strain of Old Orchard Beach, Maine; sisters Eileen Fox and Edith Frey, of Wooster, Ohio; four grandchildren and four great–grandchildren. Robert, beloved husband of 51 years, went Home in 1996. Messages of support may be sent to Robin J. Miles, 3113 Wayne White Rd., Climax, NC, 27233. E–mail: bostikids@triad.rr.com