Graveside
Larkin Sunset Gardens 1950 E Dimple Dell Rd., Sandy, UT 84092Thursday Jun 26, 2025: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
1935 ~ 2025
Thursday Jun 26, 2025: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Merle L. Jackson Strong, 89, passed away on June 12, 2025, into the inviting arms of loved ones, waiting on the other side.
Merle was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on September 21, 1935 to Clarence Jackson and Luella Shaw Jackson and grew up with one older brother, Gerald.
She went to Granite High School where she had several dear friends, many of which she stayed close to throughout her life. She dated and fell in love with David Strong, during her high school years. Once they graduated, they were married on June 25, 1954 in the Salt Lake Temple. Together they raised five children, Cathy, Lisa, Brad, Blake, and Angie, and continued to watch their family grow with many in-laws, grand, and great-grandchildren.
At the age of 19, Merle’s husband, Dave, began to take over his father’s automobile business, L. H. Strong Motor Co. From there the successful businesses became Dave Strong Volkswagen, Porsche, and Audi. Merle and Dave were wonderful partners, as they built their businesses, raised their family, and truly lived their lives to the fullest. Dave and Merle also traveled much of the world for Dave’s businesses and gained many friends along the way.
Merle was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, where she served in several callings. She was also involved with several church and community charities, such as the Junior League. She and Dave developed many close friendships in their wards, neighborhoods, and community. There were always swimming parties at their house and they also enjoyed golfing, tennis and watching their kids and grandkids sports and other activities. For years they loved going to University of Utah and Jazz games.
Merle always looked forward to her girlfriend lunches and did lots of traveling and cruises with friends and family. Traditions and family gatherings like the Christmas Santa party were everything to her. For years, summer days were spent with several friends and families on Balboa Island, before Merle and Dave bought their Coronado condo. Family vacations were a must, highlighted by the past forty nine years of summers in Coronado.
Merle never let a birthday or holiday pass without big celebrations of all sorts, and Merle secretly told each person that they were her favorite. Every year Merle looked forward to our “sweet tradition” of our Christmas homemade chocolates that we would gift to friends and family. This is a tradition that Merle and her mom, Luella, started more than 55 years ago. Over the years, several family members have learned the art of making and hand dipping chocolates and still carry on this tradition to this day. Merle will be remembered by all who knew her as a kind, friendly, ray of sunshine. People were always drawn to her because of her thoughtfulness, love, happiness, and generosity. Many of her children’s friends considered Merle as their “second Mom”. She will be deeply missed by her husband of 71 years, Dave, and her children, Cathy (Mike), Lisa (Kimball), Brad (Sana), Blake, deceased (Cindy), and Angie (Marion), and many loving grand and great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Luella, her brother, Gerald, her son, Blake, and grandson, Audie.
A viewing will be held Wednesday, June 25, 2025, from 6:00-8:00, at the Mt. Olympus Stake Center, 4176 Adonis Dr. (3950 East), Salt Lake City, Utah. The Funeral will be held at the same location, Thursday, June 26th , at 12:00-1:30, with a viewing before at 10:30-11:30. The interment will be at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E. 10600 S., Sandy, Utah.
I didn't personally know you but as a kid my Grandmother worked for you in your home , I always heard wonderful story's about your loving family , I remember seeing such beautiful family xmas cards my grandmother would bring home .
My grandmother was Ada Prescott she loved your family .
REST in Peace
Jeannie
We love Merle and Dave and their entire family. John was friends with Blake growing up and always felt love and acceptance in the Strong home. Their example contributed to John joining the church when he was 23. Great memories of playing in the pool and parties at their. beautiful home. We are out of the country and will not be at the funeral but know that we send our love and prayers to Dave and all of the family. <3
Cathy, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your dear mother. Sounds like she was (is) amazing. My sister, Claudia Curtis loved her very much. I am praying for the Lord to heal your hearts and help you look joyfully forward to the day you will be reunited.
With my love,
Laurie Wilson-Bell
There are not enough words to describe Merle, her kindness, contagious laughter and incredible personality. I was always welcomed with a kind word and hug ever since I step through their door in 6th grade. Dave, I’m so sorry for losing the love of your life but you have a wonderful family there to help you with anything you might need. My heart is with all of the Strong family, especially my Lisa…🩷
Cathy, I'm sorry for the loss of your mom. I know how close you were, and beside being your mom she was your best friend. Her family and your dad was your rock and guiding light. I hope that the hole and deep sorrow you feel right now is that she has been reunited with your brother and her family. Memories will become sweet and beautiful in time. My heart is with you as you go through this time you also have my love and my arms wrapped around as does the Savior .
Aunt Merle was a sweetheart and I have so many fond memories. She will be missed. Love to all!
Linda
I so appreciate the family of Merle Strong you treated my mother Marilee Jenson like she was part of your family I believe that my mother was there to welcome and greet Merle
I remember with foundness, Kathy, Lisa and Brad as students at Churchill Jr. High Seminary . Beautiful service for your mom. I have wonderful memories as a Seminary teacher at Churchill in the 70’s.
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Merle will be incredibly missed by so many people. I don’t think I ever remember seeing her mad in all of the years of knowing her. She always lit up a room with her smile when she entered. Merle always was happy and wanted to have fun.
I always loved being around Merle and Dave and all of the Strong’s, love you all!!!!
We were so sad to hear of Merle's passing. We have been family friends of the Strong Family since the mid-1970's. Condolences to Dave and the entire Strong Family. Grateful for this amazing family, and looking forward to seeing Merle and Blake again. Until we meet again! #StrongerTogether
We had many years of sharing the terrace with your family. It was a pleasure knowing your sweet Mom and knowing of her deep love and care for your father and family.
On one occasion, my daughter was visiting Coronado. After her toddler had ingested too much pool water, she sought out your family for a priesthood blessing. She was in the care of your family and we will appreciate this always.
We will miss seeing your mom in Coronado.