James H. Strong passed away peacefully at home on November 14, 2025, surrounded by his family. He grew up in Yardley, PA, and spent his summers at his family's beach house in Mantoloking, NJ. He attended Farragut Academy in Pine Beach.

Jim proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, where he earned rank of a sharpshooter. Following his military service, he worked for the city of Trenton.

A gifted photographer, Jim excelled in black-and-white photography and received numerous awards for his work. When not in his darkroom, you may have found him at the shooting range. He owned an impressive collection of firearms. He was an avid swimmer who loved doing laps in the ocean or a pool. Jim also had a passion for sports cars, music, the arts and a soft heart for pets.

Jim lived for many years in South Londonderry, VT, and had residences in Saco, ME and Englewood, FL. Last year he moved to Forked River, NJ, to live with his daughter and her family. He joyfully embraced them 11 years ago when his daughter found him; she had been adopted at birth. He was thrilled to be called "Gramps"!

He was predeceased by his parents, Corinne Strong Peterson, and at the young age of 13, by his father, Lt. Commander James Hale Strong, inventor of a military training parachute. Jim was proud of his father's many accomplishments and saddened to have grown up without him. He was also preceded in death by his beautiful and beloved wife of 21 years, Barbara Spain Strong.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Lee Ann Stephens, and her husband, Mark, of Forked River; and by his cherished grandchildren, Alexis, Emily and Olivia Stephens. He also leaves behind many lifelong friends who will remember him with fondness, laughter and gratitude. Jim truly was one of a kind.

Cremation was private and under the direction of Ocean County Cremation Service . In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ASPCA. A memorial service will be held at a later date.