In Memory

Elizabeth Toll (Stragnell) - Class Of 1943

Elizabeth Toll (Stragnell)

Elizabeth Stragnell of Hanover, New Hampshire, was born September 1, 1925 to Kathryn (Burrows) and Charles Toll in Los Angeles. They lived in Hermosa Beach and in the mid-30s the family moved to San Marino.

She acquired the nickname, Libby, while attending Henry Huntington Middle School and South Pasadena High School. She graduated from Pomona College and trained at Huntington Memorial Hospital as a Medical Technologist, a job that she enjoyed. It was here that she found the love of her life, intern Bob Stragnell. They married in 1948 and set up their first home in Sherman Oaks. Their first child, Sallie was born during this time so Libby exchanged the title of 'Med Tech' for that of 'Mother' and never looked back. The family moved to Arcadia and Libby became involved in church and school, primarily those things concerned with children and family.

Though a Girl Scout in her own youth, Libby served for 12 years as a Camp Fire Girl leader while her daughters were involved, as well as on the local Camp Fire and Unity Way boards. She was also an active member of the Arcadia Presbyterian Church, where she was a Sunday school teacher, adult study leader and Volunteer Director. The Stragnell home was always open and full of friends of all ages.

As Bob moved toward retirement, he and Libby turned their attention to building the 'dream home' in Prescott, Arizona. They lived there for 18 years, staying busy with church, local history and politics; it was a very happy time. While visiting their son Stephen and his family in Hanover, Bob and Libby decided to stay. Though she missed the West as long as she lived, she learned to love New Hampshire.

She is survived by Sallie Stragnell Rinderknecht, Charles Stragnell, Susan Stragnell, Robert Stragnell, Stephen Stragnell, and Sarah Stragnell Foster, several beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Valley News, November 5, 2019