Claralyn (Strobel) Rollins

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for the life she led that we announce the passing of Claralyn Strobel Rollins (Nanny), a woman of strength, love, and dedication, on July 25, 2026, just shy of her 94th birthday. Claralyn passed away peacefully in hospice care in the comforting presence of her loving daughter, Donna and son-in-law, Jeff in Granby, Connecticut.

Claralyn was born to Clara (Claus) and William Strobel in Lowell, Massachusetts, the city where her remarkable journey began on July 30, 1932. Claralyn was raised with the values of hard work and compassion. She carried those defining qualities throughout her life. After graduating from Lowell High in 1950, Claralyn embarked on a life marked by perseverance and unwavering dedication. She devoted more than 40 years to her career at Data-Mail in Newington, CT. She became known for her loyalty, exceptional work ethic and quiet dependability. Her commitment left a lasting impression for those who had the privilege to work alongside her.

Claralyn was a woman of remarkable strength, independence and character. These qualities were not only evident in her career, but also in the love and dedication she showed her family and community. She had a deep appreciation for the natural world. She had a profound love for animals and especially birds, a passion that was evident to all who knew her. Her hobbies reflected her nurturing spirit; she found joy in reading, knitting, crocheting, and puzzles—activities that brought her peace and connected her with those she loved.

Family was at the heart of Claralyn's life. Though she faced the unimaginable sorrow of losing her beloved children, Wade Allen Rollins in March of 1991, and Robin Ann Rollins in April of 1993, she continued to be a beacon of strength and love for her surviving daughter, Donna Bobrow. Her legacy lives on through her cherished grandchildren, Randalynn Muzzio (husband Joseph), Dedrianne McKenney, Lynn McKenney, Jocelyn Rollins (Doyle), and Wiley Rollins; her adored great-grandchildren, Mason McKenney, Alexys Davila, Gianna Muzzio, Amalya Wright, Yonatan Wright, Sophie Muzzio, and Carmelah Wright; her precious great-great-grandchildren, Amir McKenney and Nova McKenney; and many nieces and nephews.

Claralyn's family wishes to extend their heartfelt appreciation for the love and support she received throughout her life. In honor of her generous spirit, donations can be made in support of animals or veterans reflecting her belief in the importance of giving back.

As we remember Claralyn, we hold close her unwavering dedication, her nurturing love, and the warmth she brought into every life she touched. Her family shares this special message: We are sending you home with peace and love.

Thank you to the amazing staff at MeadowBrook of Granby. You have been a great support and comfort to my grandmother during her stay and to our family during her passing.

May her memory be a blessing and her spirit forever cherished.

Calling hours and funeral services will be held on Sunday, August 2, 2026 from 2 PM to 4 PM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home of Berlin, 111 Chamberlain Hwy., Berlin, CT.