Anna Strole 84, of Island, Kentucky passed away Friday, July 26, 2024 at Riverside Care and Rehabilitation Center in Calhoun. Anna Lou Wilkerson was born July 17, 1940 in in Island, Kentucky to the late Howard Strother and Nellie Mae Poole Wilkerson and was married to Charles Richard Strole on February 5, 1971. Anna’s life was a tapestry of love, service, and the simple joys that she found in the world around her.
Before retiring, Anna dedicated many years of service to York International in Madisonville, where her work ethic and warm personality were greatly valued. She was not only committed to her career but also found time to engage in her community, particularly through her membership at Buttonsberry Baptist Church. Anna’s faith was a cornerstone of her life, providing her with strength and solace throughout the years.
Anna’s love for her hometown of Island was evident in every aspect of her life. She had a passion for growing and caring for her flowers, an activity that reflected her nurturing spirit. Friends and family often found her sitting at her kitchen table, a cup of coffee in hand, gazing at the birds that visited her garden. It was in these quiet moments that Anna found great contentment.
Taking long drives to see her community was another pastime that brought Anna great pleasure. She appreciated the beauty of the landscape, the changing seasons, and the familiar sights of her neighborhood. These drives were not just about the destination but the experience of being amidst the community she loved.
Kind, thoughtful, and selfless—these words best describe Anna. She was a person who always put others before herself, offering a listening ear, a comforting hug, or a helping hand whenever needed. Her acts of kindness, both big and small, left an indelible mark on the hearts of those she encountered.
Anna Lou Strole’s life was a testament to the beauty of a life well-lived—full of love, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to her family and community. She leaves behind—a legacy of love, compassion, and the gentle touch of a life lived for others. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories shared by those who loved her and through the vibrant blooms of her garden that will continue to flourish year after year.
In addition to her parents, Anna was preceded in death by a son, Kevin Strole; a son-in-law, Mark Baker; a brother, Tommy Wilkerson; and two sisters, Etta Mae Hodgin and Shelia Free.
Anna is survived by her husband of 53 years, Charlie Strole; three sons, Rick Strole (Tracy) of McLeansboro, Illinois, Bruce Strole (Donna Birdwell) of Tennessee and James Strole of South Carolina; three daughters, Valerie Crawford (Glenn) of Owensboro, Carolyn Myers (Terry) of Henderson and Becky Baker of Island; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Ronnie Wilkerson (Mary) of Island and Ray Wilkerson (Kay) of Livermore; two sisters, Darnell Townsley (Louis) of Monon, Indiana and Debra Jenkins (Rick Rehrman) of Evansville; two that she considered as her own children, Brian and Cori Free; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 P.M. Monday, July 29, 2024 at Muster Funeral Homes, Livermore Chapel. Burial will be in the Island Baptist Cemetery in McLean County. Friends may visit with Anna’s family from 12:30 P.M. until 3:00 P.M. Monday at Musters in Livermore.
The Anna Strole family requests that expressions of sympathy take the form of donations to Island Baptist Cemetery Fund; C/O Joe Howell; 835 Doug Hill Road; Island, Kentucky 42350.
Anna’s services will be streamed live on musterfuneralhomes.com at 3:00 P.M. Monday.