Former Richmond Mayor, City Commissioner Bill Strong dies at age 84

Former Richmond Mayor and City Commissioner Bill Strong passed away Monday at the age of 84.

Strong served as Richmond Mayor for four years, was Mayor Pre-Tem for eight years, and was a commissioner for 21 years. Strong also was a magistrate and served on the Madison County Fiscal Court for four years.

Strong and his late wife Jeannie Strong and the couple owned and operated B+B Gracoery and Deli on Estill Avenue in Richmond. He was known for his catering and “took pride in cooking country ham” and catering fish and fries across the state.

It is with great sadness that the family of William Henry (Bill) Strong, 84, of Paint Lick, KY announces his passing on Monday, January 13, 2025. Bill was born in Whick, KY on October 23, 1940. He was the son of Patrick Henry Strong and Martha Jane Strong, both of whom preceded him in death.

He moved to Richmond as a young child and grew up on Evansdale Ave. He attended and graduated from Madison Model in 1959 and then Eastern Kentucky University in 1963 before choosing to serve in the Army. Later, he managed Jerry’s Restaurants for 16 years before opening B + B Grocery and Deli where he took pride in cooking country ham and catering fish fries all over the state. After retiring from the restaurant business, he enjoyed working at the Hall of Justice continuing to serve Richmond.

Bill was married for 50 years to the love of his life Jeannie Woolum Strong, who preceded him in death. His grandson William Gene Kelly also preceded him in death. He is survived by his daughter, Billie Jean (Jimmy) Kelly, granddaughter, Jimmi Lynn (Tyler) Watson, and 2 great grandchildren who he adored, Bo and Tyler Jean Watson. Two sisters, Thelma Jean (Max) Duncan and Mary Lou (Nelson) Cox, and one brother Steve (Brenda) Strong, and several nieces and nephews.

Bill was known for being one of the longest serving elected officials in Madison County. He loved politics and helping the people he served. When he was no longer in office he still loved to stay involved and looked forward to election time each year.

He served his community and was very involved in civic organizations. He was elected as the Mayor of Richmond for 4 years, Mayor Pro-Tem for 8 years, City Commissioner for 21 years, and Madison County Magistrate for 4 years. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion and VFW and served as Commander for the American Legion for 3 years. He was a member of the 40/8 club, Shriner of Oleika Temple for 56 years and president of the Madison county Shrine Club, Elks Club member for 50 years, Grand Lodge of KY F and AM, 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason, Army Veteran, and attended The First Church of the Nazarene for over 75 years.

Bill loved people and never met a stranger. He was a serious coin collector, and loved to share them with others, often giving them away; especially American Silver Eagles. He enjoyed watching the Cincinnati Reds play, talking about his Longhorn Cattle, sitting in the sun, and a good T-Bone steak. Playing any game where you could gamble for fun, telling a good story, and listening to good music. He always had a smile and a positive word for anyone he came across, and will be remembered for that contagious optimism.

Pallbearers: Gary Kelly, Tyler Watson, Mike Brewer, Russell Lane, Donnie Mize, Bob Moody, Ed Worley, Sam Green, Willie Joe Covington, Kennth Barger, Gary Vencill, and the “Class of ‘59”.

Services will be held at Eastside Community Church. Visitation will be Sunday, Jan. 19 from 5-8 p.m.; The funeral will be Monday, Jan. 20 at 11 a.m.

Oldham, Roberts & Powell Funeral Home is serving the family.