September 17, 2023, 75, Goldsboro —
Rev. Dr. George Franklin Strickland, 75, completed his earthly journey on Sunday, September 17, 2023, at Wayne UNC Health Care in Goldsboro. Born in Sampson County on July 26, 1948, he was the second of nine children born to Bennie Strickland and Ruby Weeks Strickland.
George is survived by his children, Denise Rutledge Bittner (Mike), Chenoa Strickland Pysar (Travis), Benjamin Randall Strickland (Stephanie); his dear grandchildren, David Bittner (Michelle), Jocelyn Pysar, Tristan Pysar, Aidan Strickland, Lexi Strickland, Benny Strickland and Connor Strickland. He is also survived by his siblings, Larry Strickland, Diane Smith (Ruben), Steve Strickland (Cheryl), Nina Carol Alvarado (Gary); sisters-in-law, Sylvia Strickland (Melvin) and Margie Strickland (James).
In addition to his parents, George was preceded in death by his loving wife, Linda Ham Strickland; brothers, Melvin Strickland, James Strickland, Charles Strickland, and Mike Strickland; and his sister-in-law, Wanda Strickland. George spent his early years in Mount Olive but lived most of his adult life in Goldsboro. His most remarkable day was February 18, 1976, when he became a Christian and from that day forth he dedicated himself to the study of the Word of God and eventually earned a Doctorate in Religious Education. George served several churches in his 28 years of ministry, most recently at Goldsboro Friends Meeting, where he has pastored since 2014.
George defended his country for twenty-three years in both the US Army and later in the North Carolina National Guard. He was a veteran of both the Vietnam War and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He retired in 2005 as a Master Sergeant. In addition to his military career, George also worked at Georgia Pacific as a millwright and welder until retirement.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, September 21, 2023, from 12:00 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Goldsboro Friends Meeting followed by a service to celebrate his life at 1:30 p.m. with Brent McKinney officiating. Burial will be held following the service at Wayne Memorial Park in Dudley.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to
Goldsboro Friends Meeting
1800 Salem Church Road
Goldsboro, NC 27530
Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
