Eric Strong’s vision for a beautification project in East Lubbock included a walking track lined with sculptures, water features, performance stages and benches.

Now, the Lubbock Roots Historical Arts Council he once led says it will work together after his death last weekend to make sure his vision for the Historic East Lubbock Gateway project comes to fruition.

"He was a visionary, when he’d have something in mind, he’d share with us and the next time we meet he’s already taken care of it. He was just definitely a go-getter," said Vernita Holmes, a member of the council. "It’s devastating to even think about Eric. He will definitely be missed but because of his passion for what he wanted to do, we’re all on board. We’re seeing to it that it gets done."

Strong, who had served as director of the Lubbock Roots Historical Arts Council, died Saturday at age 64.

The council’s chairwoman, Shirley Green, said it was a privilege and honor to serve the community alongside Strong.

"I know he’s given his blood, sweat, tears and soul to the community as far as his service, dedication, integrity (and loyalty)," Green said. "He’s very sincere in helping to make a difference in Lubbock and East Lubbock and very passionate about the projects we’re doing."

Strong’s sister-in-law, Norma Aranda, said his wife was was always by his side, supporting him in his endeavors.

"(She) was also an inspiration to him. My sister, Maria Strong, was the one that was behind the scenes, giving him the energy and the support," Aranda said. "Behind every great man, there’s a great woman. He was one in a million, that’s for sure."

Strong was not only a role model for many in the African-American community. His influence was felt by many across the Lubbock community during his decades with Texas Tech’s Upward Bound program, where he served as a counselor, and eventually director, until 2007.

Juan Munoz, senior vice president for Tech’s Division of Institutional Diversity, Equity & Community Engagement, said Strong’s death was a loss for the region.

"Eric was among the most respected community elders and mentors as well as a dear friend. He championed the cause of education and sought to serve those who were all too often underserved and overlooked," Munoz, who is also vice provost for undergraduate education and student affairs, said in a statement. "His absence will be felt by those of us better for having known, learned and listened to Eric. Now we are what remains of his magnificent life and story."

Cosby Morton, treasurer of the Roots council, said he’s heard from many people who have been positively impacted by Strong’s encouragement of others and infectious smile.

"As I talk to a lot of parents, they tell me if it wasn’t for him, his inspiration and his encouragement, their kids would never have went to college," Morton said. "He’s always encouraging people to bring out their talents."

Arnada said Strong was always involved in bringing the community together.

"He never saw color, he never saw rich or poor, he just saw people," she said. "You always (felt like) this is a man that doesn’t take life for granted, that doesn’t have a bad day, even if he is, he doesn’t show it. He just keeps going."

Morton said the beautification project is still in its early stages, but they’re determined to finish it with Strong’s goals in mind.

"One of the things we’re going to miss is his wisdom, his desire, his determination and focus," Morton said. "He’s spent a great portion of the last few years (on this project). He was determined to do that and he was determined to have people know about East Lubbock."

In lieu of flowers, residents can make a donation to the Lubbock Roots Historical Arts Council by visiting City Bank or at www.RootsHistoricalArtsCouncil.com.

A viewing will be from 1 to 6 p.m. Friday at Griffin Mortuary, 1715 E. Broadway.

The wake will be from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Friday at Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church, 2302 Cedar Ave.

There will be another viewing at 10 a.m., followed by the funeral at 11 a.m. Saturday at St. John United Methodist Church, 1501 University Ave.

Interment will be Saturday at Peaceful Gardens Memorial Park, 15602 TX-493 Loop in Lubbock.