Carol Jo Strickland

Carol passed peacefully from this earth after 69 wonderful years the morning of 01.14.2021 in Wilmington, North Carolina, where she moved in 2012. She found a wonderful church family at Lake Forest Baptist Church where she helped with the outreach program and volunteered. She loved her church and everyone there. She also enjoyed going to the YMCA and participating in the swim program as much as possible, going on walks at Greenfield Lake and watching sunrises, especially at Carolina Beach. Carol was a talented seamstress and formerly worked with the Wilmington Film Studio, and had served as a waitress and secretary in earlier years. Most of all she was a beloved and devoted mother, grandmother, sister and friend to many.

Carol had 2 wonderful and beautiful children, Michael Ussery, who has been her care taker for the last few years and Ali who passed away in 2011. Forever remembered. Carol also had a granddaughter Kara, whom she sewed clothing for and motivated to always be strong.

Carol came from a large family with 3 sisters and 2 brothers. Growing up she kept her mother on her toes, was best friends with sister Janie, spoiled the 2 youngest girls and was always in awe of her brothers who could do no wrong. Brothers, Rogers N. Strickland, Jr. and wife Peggy and Jay Denny Strickland and wife Ginny; sisters, Joy Strickland Owens and husband Terry and Elizabeth Strickland Herron. Sister, Sarah Jane Strickland who preceded her in death.

At 6 years old while playing with matches at Grandma’s house she caught the bedroom curtains on fire and told her sister Janie not to tell anyone…. finally Janie ran 3 blocks to Grand Dad & Grand Ma’s store to tell them. Carol seemed to think that burning the house down was much better than getting in trouble with Grand Dad!

Despite many obstacles, setbacks and pain from a back injury, her perseverance held out and she never gave up. She was a true survivor. She was always interested, wanting to know how everyone was, what they were doing and willing to help if she could.

Donations in memory of Carol can made to: Lake Forest Baptist Church 1626 Lake Branch Drive Wilmington, NC 28401

Memorial service plans are pending.

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Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 910-791-9099