Jody Strauss Obituary

Jody L. Strauss, of Venice, FL (formerly of Lower Burrell), left this world to be with the Lord on Sunday, July 27, 2025. Born Jan. 8, 1954, she was the daughter of Rosemarie (Phillips) Schank and Joseph G. Schank of New Kensington, who both preceded her in death, along with her husband, Richard J. Strauss, who died in 2003. She and her husband were the sole caregivers for her mother from 1980 to 1997. Mrs. Strauss earned an undergraduate BS degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1976 and a master's in business from Robert Morris University in 1982. She worked in hospital administration and advanced to senior vice president for FYI Healthserve, where she traveled and managed employees in 10 states. Additionally, she taught as an adjunct at the University of Pittsburgh, served as president of her local and state professional associations, consulted, published articles in professional journals, and presented lectures. Mrs. Strauss was a devoted mother and grandmother. She is survived by one daughter, Rachel (Stephen) Alayli of Canonsburg, PA; one grandson, Theodore; and another grandson due in Sept. 2025. Mrs. Strauss also leaves her significant other and faithful companion, William McDonald. She enjoyed time with her family and rooting for Pittsburgh sports, especially the Steelers and Pittsburgh Panthers. Mrs. Strauss was active in the Council for Catholic Women and the Knights of Columbus Auxiliary. She was a member of San Pedro Catholic Church, North Port, FL. A private funeral Mass at Mt. St. Peter Church, New Kensington, will be celebrated at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the American Kidney Fund at www.kidneyfund.org. Mrs. Strauss was a kidney transplant recipient, and the family is forever grateful to Kellie Weir, RN, niece and kidney donor.