Ronald Edwin Strait, age 78 of Clarkesville, passed away Tuesday, June 17, 2014, at his residence. Born in Hall County on October 29, 1935, he was a son of the late Wayne Strait and Estelle Medlin Redmond. Mr. Strait was a retired medical assistant with the Georgia Department of Corrections. He was an active member of Unity Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher. Mr. Strait spent his life dedicated to the service of his country in the United States Army, his family, his church, and his Savior, Jesus Christ. In addition to his parents, Mr. Strait was preceded in death by his son, Tony Strait; siblings, Richard and Audrey. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Regina Bacon Strait of Clarkesville; children, Joseph Strait, Timothy Strait, and Andy Strait all of Clarkesville and Laura Strait Bearce (Dennis) of Lavalette, West Virginia; grandchildren, Ronald, Nathan, Victoria, Elizabeth, Megan, Amanda, and Chris; three great grandchildren; siblings, David, Sue, Fran, and Carol Ann. Funeral services are 11:00 am Thursday, June 19, 2014, at Unity Baptist Church with Rev. Charles Phillips officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery with military honors provided by VFW Post #7720, American Legion Post #84, Rabun County DAV Chapter #15, and the Georgia National Guard. All family and friends are requested to meet at the church at 10:30 am on Thursday . The family will receive at the funeral home from 2-4 & 6-8 pm Wednesday. An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandstewart.com. McGahee-Griffin & Stewart Funeral Home of Cornelia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.