John Montgomery Strang, 69, died peacefully on March 21, 2023. John was a long-time student and worker for Orange Grove Center. He had attended Orange Grove since the late 1950's when he was a young boy. In his adulthood, John was employed in many different jobs through the workshops at Orange Grove Center where he was an asset to his community.

John was always such a friendly, sweet person, who loved meeting new people and never knew a stranger. He loved to joke with his family and friends with his many unique sayings. He brought so much joy into the lives of his family and acquaintances who learned about unconditional love and patience from being around him. The children in the Strang family were blessed with the gift of exposure to and understanding of individuals with disabilities through him. John had a unique ability to see the simple beauty in everyone and everything around him. He had a kind, generous spirit and a heart of gold. Although he was handicapped, he connected with others through a sincere kindness and compassion.

At an early age he took to the water with ease and soon became an excellent swimmer; he was always at home in the water, and he loved to swim and play water games with his brothers. As he matured, his swimming strength and agility became more noticeable. Over time it was clear he was one of the best swimmers at Orange Grove School. Enthusiasm had grown around his ability in the water, and he was selected to compete in swimming at the Special Olympics for Orange Grove. He competed in several races and trials and eventually advanced to the Special Olympics Swimming Finals in Chicago, Illinois. To the surprise of his family, he came home with several medals.  John was healthy and happy until the end of his life due to the great devotion and care provided by his mother.

John is predeceased by his parents Janet and Jim Strang.

He is survived by his brothers, James Strang, Jr., Garrett Strang, and Philip Strang, several nieces and nephews and a large extended family. John will be sorely missed and always remembered by those who knew him.

Funeral services will be held on July 29, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul's Episcopal Church. A reception will follow at the church.

Arrangements entrusted to Hamilton Funeral Home 4506 Hixson Pike Hixson, TN 37343 423.531.3975.