David Barrington Stronge

David Barrington Stronge, 61, of Chester, VA passed away peacefully on the morning of May 12, 2016 after a long battle with multiple sclerosis. Dave was born in the city of London, England on December 7, 1954 to the late Dr. David Strong, MD & Una Strong (now Una Harrison nee Barrington-Cramp), and married on February 18, 1981 to the love of his life, Pauline Stronge (nee Freeman). He moved to Chester, VA in 1988 where he worked as a master craftsman in instrument repair, and played music in all of his spare time. From the time he was a little boy, Dave was an avid musician who was able to play practically every instrument he picked up. His passion became Celtic and folk music, which he played all over Europe, sharing the stage with many talented musicians, often choosing the banjo as his instrument of choice. In America, he was recruited specifically to work with harpsichords at Colonial Williamsburg, and built his career around being able to work with very delicate instruments. He continued to play music all around Virginia, especially at Legend Brewery, mostly with his band, Brigantine. Dave was also a regular at the Galax Virginia Fiddlers Convention, sharing his talents with countless people, and often just jamming with complete strangers. Though MS eventually robbed him of his ability to play music, he continued to teach instrument repair to a number of apprentices, and supported local music when he was able.
David is survived by his wife, Pauline; his sons, David Stronge, Andrew Stronge (Adrienne) and Kelvin Stronge (Katherine); his mother and step-father David & Una Harrison; two sisters, Katrina Castleberry (James) and Sara Borum (Billy); two grandchildren, Emily & Frankie; and many nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, cousins and dear friends who will miss him terribly.
Dave’s CD can be downloaded at http://brigantine.bandcamp.com . In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the National MS Society in his honor. A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 15, 2016 at J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home 3050 W. Hundred Road Chester, VA, 23831. Condolences may be registered online at www.jtmorriss.com .