Curtis D. Strozier

Curtis Darnell Strozier was born December 27, 1947, in Columbus, Ohio, to the late Edward Strozier and Willie Mae Strozier. He was the oldest of two and was called to rest on Monday, August 24, 2026

In his childhood years, Curtis was known for his love of music and model airplanes. He was a member of "Gay Street Baptist Church", now known as "Tabernacle Baptist". He attended Columbus City Schools and was a proud East High Tiger, class of '65, and a Columbus Technical College graduate.

After schooling, he would follow in his father's footsteps, working in a machine parts factory, which would spark a lifelong fascination with both machinery and automobiles. Not long after, Curtis dedicated himself to empowering his community and started the first black-owned cable company, KBLE, in the early 1970s through the late 1980s, to ensure African Americans like himself could enjoy the same luxuries others did. Curtis would eventually sell this company to what is now Time Warner Cable and continue a life of entrepreneurship.

Curtis had a strong passion for cars, specifically fast cars, owning over four Corvettes alone. He ran a body shop in the late 1980s, working on all his favorite vehicles and solidifying himself as the family's go-to mechanic. He was very skilled with his hands and was known for trying to fix everything himself first.

Curtis was known for his strong opinions and being willing to challenge anything he didn't believe in. He was a hard worker and never ceased sharpening his skills and seeking knowledge. He was a true entrepreneur and was always looking for his next venture. He was a family man who deeply loved his parents and wore their influence on his sleeve.

Curtis leaves to cherish his memory his life partner, Roberta Willis; sister, Lois "Babydoll" McCampbell; brother-in-law, Dale McCampbell; nieces, Toni and Tia; great-nephews and nieces, Darien, Jayden, Brianna, Courtland, Courtney; and a multitude of beloved cousins, extended family and friends.

Curtis will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, unwavering determination, quick wit, and the love he shared with those closest to him. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the opportunities he created, and the many lessons he passed down through his words and actions. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will remain forever in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Today we celebrate the life of an amazing man.