January 27, 2023, 95, Goldsboro –
Thelma Riley Strickland, 95, passed away on Friday, January 27, 2023, at her home, surrounded by her family. Born in Orange County on March 1, 1927, she was the daughter of the late Bennett and Mary Riley.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, T.J. Strickland; siblings, Preston Riley, Irvin Riley, Bennett Riley, Louis Riley, and Lora Rigsbee.
Thelma is survived by her children, Jean Rollins (Jimmy), Donna Strickland, Cathy Rhodes (Wayne), and Dr. Vicky Daly (Dr. John); grandchildren, Amber Tharpe, Tracey Whitfield, Jamie McArdle (Chris), Shannon Rhodes (Dee Joyner), Jason Rhodes (Denise), Joshua Rhodes (Angela), Aidan Daly, Stephanie Daly, Johnny Daly (Ashley); fifteen great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and a special family friend, Elouise Burke whom we consider a part of our family.
Thelma was a dedicated and loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a caring and selfless person who was devoted to her family, friends, and church. Thelma was loved by all who knew her and will be missed enormously by everyone who was fortunate enough to cross her path; but especially by her family.
Thelma worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse at Wayne Memorial Hospital serving her beloved patients for thirty-one years. She also worked at Cherry Hospital for five years. Thelma was a dedicated and faithful member of Victory Free Will Baptist Church.
A service to celebrate Thelma’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 2, 2023, at Victory Free Will Baptist Church with Rev. Michael McCauley and Rev. Fred Crank officiating. Interment will follow at Wayne Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. in the hour prior to the service at the church.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Rachel, Chassidy, Kristina, and Catherine from Community Home Care and Hospice for their kindness, care and support through this journey of our mama’s life. Our loss is truly heaven’s gain.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
