Patricia Lynn Strauss

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Patricia Lynn Strauss, who left us peacefully after a life filled with love, learning, and adventure. Born on November 10, 1960, in Baltimore, Maryland, Patricia, known as Tricia to all who loved her, was christened at Christ Lutheran Church in Baltimore. She moved to Forest Park, Georgia at just six months old, and while her family returned to Baltimore briefly, she was back in Georgia by the age of four, where she would call home for much of her life.

Tricia was dedicated to her faith, completing her biblical instructions through the Lutheran Church in Forest Park, where she actively participated in the youth groups, vocational Bible school, and Sunday school. Her passion for growth and service extended beyond the church, as she became a proud member of the Girl Scouts, earning numerous badges that marked her commitment to perseverance and hard work.

Her school years were marked by both dedication and talent. As a member of the marching band, she started with the flute and later transitioned to the oboe, where she earned the role of first chair and often assisted the conductor in tuning instruments. Tricia’s intelligence and work ethic were evident throughout her academic career; she graduated high school with a 4.0 GPA, taking college-level courses in addition to her regular studies. After high school, she continued her education at Georgia State University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science.
From an early age, Tricia displayed a sense of responsibility and a love for helping others. Whether it was assisting with daily chores at home or planning family vacations, Tricia was a natural organizer. She organized detailed itineraries, menus, and activities for family trips, including memorable camping excursions in the Smoky Mountains where she guided her family to respect and enjoy the wildlife around them, such as a mother skunk and her babies.

A curious and responsible young woman, Tricia opened a savings account in sixth grade with a collection of silver dollars her grandfather had given her. She kept her savings safe, always with a keen interest in learning how the world worked. When she got her driver’s license on her 16th birthday, she quickly learned the ins and outs of independence, taking on a part-time job while continuing to excel in school.

Tricia’s journey of independence continued as she ventured into adulthood. She purchased her first car, and though her father Bill initially bought her a standard-shift Datsun, Tricia’s inability to quite master the clutch led her to a more agreeable automatic car. She moved on to a successful career in the IT department of JC Penney, where she flourished. Tricia was proud of her accomplishments, including buying her own house, and in 1995, she embarked on a new chapter of her life when she married Carlos.

Together, Tricia and Carlos traveled the world, sharing adventures in nearly every corner of the globe. From their travels, they gathered memories and stories that reflected Tricia’s love of discovery and the joy she found in new experiences. While she never made it to Africa, the Middle East, or Australia, she did make lifelong memories in many other places that will continue to inspire those who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her Brother Dustin Lee Strauss.

Tricia is survived by her husband John Carlos Rocha, Parents William and Lucy Strauss, Sisters Elizabeth Bruce, Charlene Morris, and Holly Marie Strauss, Niece Brittany Morris, Uncles Rodney(Dixie) Reckart of West Virginia, Gary(Donna) Strauss of Maryland, Aunts Sue Ann Harris of Maryland, Nelda Fay Koch of Maryland, and G. Arlene Constantine of Arizona

Tricia was not just a daughter, a sister, a wife, or a friend; she was a constant source of love and support. She was the dependable helper who took care of her sisters and her family. She brought joy into every life she touched and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She was loved, is loved, and will always be loved. Although this obituary can only offer a glimpse of her beautiful life, her memory will remain with us always.

Rest in peace, Tricia. You will forever be in our hearts.