Sarah Michelle (Blackford) Strong , age 40 of Elwood, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023 at Indiana University Hospital in Indianapolis following a brief illness.  She was born April 3, 1983 in Elwood, the daughter of Michael K. and Linda P. (Elliott) Blackford.  Sarah was baptized in St. Stephens Episcopal Church in Elwood and attended Elwood Community High School.  She formerly work in retail as a clerk at various stores and also formerly worked as a nurse aid at Dickey Nursing Home in Elwood.  She was very artistic and loved to draw.  Sarah loved cats and formerly played softball for many years as the pitcher of her team.  Sarah's family is comforted knowing she is reunited with her father in Heaven and is now in perfect health.

Sarah's family includes her mother, Linda Blackford of Elwood; 3 daughters, Zoey Strong, Layla Strong, and Rubi Strong all of Elwood; 2 sisters, Tammy (Kevin) Wallace of Elwood and Angie (Rick) Phillips of Bluffton; aunt, Diane Walker of Elwood; several special cousins including Derek (Teresa) Walker; and a niece, Ciera Fred.

Sarah was preceded in death by her father, Michael Blackford; nephew, Tim Phillips; maternal grandparents, Jack and Dot McQuinn and Dan Elliott; and paternal grandparents, Bud and Irma Blackford.

Following cremation, a private graveside service will be held at Carey Cemetery in Strawtown.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.copherfeslermay.com.