Tom Strayhorn 87, of Villa Ridge passed away Saturday, August 31, 2013 at his home.

Mr. Strayhorn, son of the late Samuel Strayhorn and wife Lottie nee Green was born September 9, 1925 in Searcy, Arkansas.

On September 14, 1946 he was united in marriage to Arlene Risch in St. Louis.

Mr. Strayhorn served his country in the United States Navy during World War II and Korean War.

He was a member of Masonic Lodge #80 in Bridgeton, Charter member of Moolah Shriner Clowns in St. Louis, Scottish Rite of Free Masonry S.J. USA 32˚, American Legion Post 565 in Labadie and Life Member of V.F.W. Post in St. Louis.

Faithful member of First Baptist Church of Villa Ridge. In addition to donating his time to many causes he was an avid woodworker, hand making over 300 wood rocking horses and giving them to children and expecting mothers.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Mr. Strayhorn is survived by his wife, Arlene Strayhorn of Villa Ridge; two sons, Tom Strayhorn and wife Sue of Catawissa and Michael Schorpp and wife Elaine of Belle; two daughters, Sharon David of St. Louis and Bonnie Patton and husband David of Villa Ridge; one brother, Joe Strayhorn of St. Louis; thirteen grandchildren, Julius "Butch" David and wife Shannon, Shawna Heathman and husband Jimmy, Kenneth David and wife Monica, Matthew Strayhorn and wife Genna, Joshua Strayhorn and wife Shannon, Leslie Paul, Brandy Paul, Michael Paul, Virginia Kasner, Brittany Araujo and husband Jonathan, Erin LoPorto and husband Bryan, Dylan Patton and Samuel Patton; fourteen great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; other relatives and many friends.