August 15, 2023, 59, Surf City —

Lori Strickland Herring, 59, passed away, on August 15, 2023, while being cared for at Lower Cape Fear Lifecare in Wilmington. Born on September 6, 1963, in Onslow County, she was the daughter of Lois Barnes Strickland and the late James Strickland.

Working in the public school system for 17 years, Lori was a dedicated employee, giving her all to her work while seeking the best for her students. No matter the circumstances they faced, each child knew that Lori was in their corner.

Spending time at the beach was an absolute delight for Lori. Always wanting to be the first in her family to make it out to the beach, she was constantly on the hunt for sharks’ teeth while enjoying the ocean breeze and warm sun.

For Lori, there was no greater blessing than her family. Raising five boys whom she adored, she looked forward to the addition of daughters-in-law as an equal blessing, as she thought of each of them as her own. When grandchildren came along, she gained the title of “Gaga” and perhaps prized it more than any other. Friends were indeed a blessing as well, simply an extension of the large family she cherished.

The family will have a floating informal visitation on Saturday, August 26, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at their home, 4012 Fourth Street, Surf City, NC 28445.

In addition to her mother, Lori is survived by her husband, Mel Herring; sons, Will Smith, III and wife, Beth, Ben Smith and wife, Chelsea, Jon Smith, Jake Smith, and Seth Smith and wife, Jessica; grandchildren, Carter Wade Smith, Baylee Smith, Weston Smith, Parker Smith, and Lucas Smith.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in Lori’s memory to
Housewives of Topsail
P.O. Box 2067
Surf City, 28445

Online condolences can be made at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation of Goldsboro.