Barbara Graham Strongin

Barbara Graham Strongin, 77, of North Prince George, VA, passed away unexpectedly on July 13, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born at Camp Lee, VA, she was the daughter of the late Colonel Robert Orr Graham, Jr. and Charlotte Bastian Graham.

Barbara was a kind, generous, and deeply loved woman whose life was centered around family. A devoted wife, mother, and "Nana," she shared a uniquely close bond with her daughters, speaking with them multiple times a day. She found her greatest joy in being present for her four grandchildren-attending every school event, sports game, and special milestone in their lives.

A proud graduate of Prince George High School, Class of 1966, Barbara went on to earn her bachelor's degree from Radford University, in 1970, and her master's degree from Virginia State University, in 1974. She spent 36 years as a dedicated English teacher with Hopewell City Public Schools, where she formed lasting friendships and inspired generations of students.

Barbara was an active member of the Hopewell Women's Club and the Nathaniel Cawsey Garden Club. She also generously volunteered her time at Weston Manor and local nursing homes, where she cherished her time with the residents. An avid traveler, she especially loved exploring the world with her family by her side. Above all else, Barbara believed her most important role was that of "Nana" to her four beloved grandchildren, whom she adored beyond measure.

She is survived by her loving husband of 51 years, Richard Elliot Strongin; her daughters, Jill Strongin Jachimski (Scott), of Gainesville, VA, and Lisa Strongin Ware (Andrew), of Disputanta, VA; and her four cherished grandchildren, Kyle Graham Jachimski, Charlotte Grace Jachimski, Bryce Benjamin Jachimski, and Graham Wilson Ware. She also leaves behind her sister, Janet Graham Searcy; and nephews, Ryan Graham Searcy (Molly) and Steven Charles Searcy.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., at the Hopewell Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at St. John's Episcopal Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Historic Hopewell Foundation, 400 Weston Lane, Hopewell, VA 23860.