Elsie Marie (Hodges) Strain, known affectionately as "Granny," passed away on June 22nd, 2025, in Stillwater, Oklahoma, at the age of 91. Born on December 7, 1933, in Covington, Oklahoma, to Ethel Minnie (Bowling) Hodges and John William Hodges, she was married in 1952 to Glen Dale Strain. It was truly love at first sight, and she was fond of telling the story of how she abandoned her current beau to chase after him down the street.


Elsie's life was marked by her sweet demeanor and creative spirit, often seen with a twinkle in her eye and a mischievous grin as she planned out her next writing or quilting project. She filled her home and her family's homes with all of her wonderful creations. Her career included dedicated service at the Oklahoma State University Kitchen, and creating "Freckle Baby," a popular booth at arts and crafts shows.


A devout member of the Glencoe United Methodist Church, Elsie's faith was an important part of her life. Her hobbies included gardening, quilting, music, writing, and she truly excelled in crafting short stories and mystery novels.


Elsie is survived by her sister, Joyce (Hodges) Horner; her children, Shirlann (Strain) Bishop, Jimmy Strain, and Allen Strain; son-in-law, Don Bishop; daughter-in-law, Janet Strain; grandchildren, April (Bishop) Burkhart, Crystal (Bishop) Mitchell and her spouse John, Addie (Bishop) Rice and her spouse Rory, Bruce Strain and his spouse Shiloh, Tanara (Strain) Kelly and her spouse, Angela (Strain) Myers and her spouse Chris, JD Strain, and Jamie Strain; 13 great-grandchildren and their spouses; 2 step-great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren.


Preceding Elsie in death were her beloved husband Glen Dale Strain, her parents Ethel and John Hodges, her brother JL Hodges, and her sister Mary Andra (Hodges) Price.

Viewing will be Wednesday, June 25 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursday, June 26 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Memorial services are still pending.