Bobby Sylvester Strickland, 89, was called home to be with Jesus on Thursday, July 24, 2025, with his devoted wife, Dollie, by his side in their home.

Bobby was born on June 10, 1936, in Franklin County, North Carolina, to the late John Jenkins Strickland and Iolia Strickland. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Raymond and John Strickland; sisters, Elsie Rogers and Edith Blackley; and his beloved granddaughter, Hannah Grace Pearce.
He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Dollie Strickland; son, Bobby Scott Strickland; daughter, Jennifer Pearce (Shawn); grandson, Christopher Strickland; granddaughters, Sidney Strickland, Mallie Pearce, and Avery Pearce; along with many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Bobby was a man of deep faith who loved God, his family, and his community. He faithfully served at Poplar Spring Baptist Church as a deacon, elder, and teacher. Until his illness, he was dedicated to visiting shut-ins and senior members of his church, offering companionship, prayer, and care. Bobby had a gift for conversation--he truly never met a stranger--and was always quick to lend a helping hand or offer words of wisdom.

A 1954 graduate of Bunn High School, Bobby was voted "Most Popular" by his classmates and was active in the Glee Club and Future Farmers of America. He also loved playing baseball, a passion he passed on to his son, Scott.

After high school, Bobby began his career at Colonial Stores in Raleigh, NC, where he worked his way up to Distribution Manager, earning numerous awards and accolades for his dedication and leadership. When Colonial closed, he continued working in the grocery industry, managing several stores across North Carolina. Bobby took great pride in hard work and valued building strong relationships with both customers and employees. He treated his team like family, and many still remember him as the best boss they ever had.

The Strickland family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Amada Senior Care, especially Finley Bissette, Patrick Redmond, and Bill Edmonds, for their compassion and care over the past year. Deepest gratitude also goes to the many friends and family who have shown love, support, and prayer during this time of loss.

A funeral service to honor Bobby's life was held on Monday, July 28, 2025, at Poplar Spring Baptist Church, 89 Brantleytown Road, Zebulon, NC 27597. The family received friends at 1:00 p.m., with the service following at 2:00 p.m.

Bobby will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of kindness, faith, and love will live on through his wife, children, grandchildren, and the many lives he touched.

Paid obituary