Francis R. Strawbridge III, Bryn Mawr-born, retired former chairman at Strawbridge & Clothier and longtime civic leader, has passed away at 86, writes Gary Miles for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Strawbridge III was the great-grandson of Strawbridge & Clothier cofounder Justus Strawbridge, serving as chairman of the Philadelphia-based, family-owned department store from 1984 to 1996.

Born on Dec. 14, 1937, Strawbridge III grew up in Villanova and graduated from Haverford School in 1955 before earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology at Princeton University in 1959. 

He joined the family business in 1961 and rose through the ranks in numerous roles before becoming chairman.

As chairman, Strawbridge III helped the company remain independent during turbulent economic periods, maintain gains in suburban markets and discount retailing, and report record earnings and sales in 1984. 

He was admired by customers and colleagues for his friendly interactions and attention to detail.

“His care and concern for employees was genuine. He had an innate fairness and goodness about him,” said his wife, Mary Jo.

The family sold the company to May Department Stores in 1996. 

Away from work, Strawbridge III was recruited to leadership posts by many civic and business groups, such as the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, Einstein Medical Center, Temple University, and other organizations. 

Read more about Francis R. Strawbridge III’s lasting legacy at The Philadelphia Inquirer.

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