Dorothy Mae Strate, 85 of Lake Jackson passed away February 27, 2018 after a long, courageous battle with leukemia. She was born in Bruceville, Texas on March 25, 1932. She was many things to many people---Mother, Granny, Aunt Dorothy, Queen Bee, Sweetheart, Boss Lady, Friend, Artist, Organizer, Caterer, Hostess, Cook, Party Planner, and Christian. She brought sunshine to the lives of so many, showing grace, dignity, and a sense of humor throughout her life's journey. She spent her professional life in the food service industry. She worked for over 40 years for the Canteen Corporation, beginning as a server at the Dow Cafeteria in 1960. She moved through the ranks serving as Food Service Manager for numerous clients, and completed her tenure with Canteen as a Regional Food Services Director. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harbert and Iva Patterson; husband, H.E. (Jim) Strate; brothers, Martin Patterson, Tommy Patterson, Tony Patterson and Billy Patterson; sisters, Maxine Moore and Minerva Freeland. She is survived by her children, Shirley Strate Busbice (Mark), Jim Strate (K C), Bob Strate (Gayla); very special friend and companion, James E Smith; brother, David Patterson (Elizabeth); grandchildren, Melissa Busbice Schiller (Donnie), Stephen Busbice (Jennifer Eileen), Matthew Busbice, Terra Todd (Rodney), Jim E Strate (Irene), Carol Norsworthy (Byron), Drew Warren, Jennifer Thompson (Tom), Cody Strate (Holly) and Travis Strate (Elizabeth); 23 great grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and her special canine love Sadie. In addition to the formal family members, we must acknowledge the many, many faithful friends who touched her life and became an extension of her family. Arrangements are by Lakewood Funeral Home in Lake Jackson. Visitation with family will be Friday, March 2nd from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Lakewood Chapel. Funeral services will be Saturday, March 3rd at 10:00 a.m. with a reception to follow at the Brazosport Center of Arts & Sciences Art Gallery between 11:00 to 1:00 p.m. In lieu of floral remembrances, the family requests memorial gifts may be made to the Brazosport Art League, 400 College Blvd, Clute, TX 77531.

Sign Guestbook>>

2 Condolence(s)