John Russell Strickland Jr.

John Russell Strickland Jr., 81
of Lakeland, Georgia, passed away on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at his residence after a lengthy illness. He was born on October 26, 1943, in Campaigne, Tennessee, to the late John R. Strickland Sr. and Tommy Lou Strickland (McCrary). His family and friends meant everything to him. He held a deep admiration for his four granddaughters and took immense pride in their achievements. With an innate ability to connect with people, he had a remarkable gift for making others feel instantly comfortable—as if they had been lifelong friends. His presence radiated warmth, even in unfamiliar settings. Music was the heartbeat of his life. He spent countless hours playing the guitar, piano, and organ, but it was singing that brought him the greatest joy. He often shared his voice at weddings, funerals, and intimate performances with friends. Among his most treasured experiences were the times he spent singing with The Melodairs, The Laymen, and The Georgians. A true adventurer and a man led by heart; he served his country with honor in the U.S. Navy as part of the NSA communications team. His professional path was both varied and rewarding—ranging from insurance sales to managing grocery stores—but his deepest passion and most meaningful accomplishments were found in the soft goods industry, where he helped create apparel for men, women, and children, as well as home furnishings. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Betty Jean Strickland Haire. Survivors include: His loving wife of 42 years, Shirley Paschal Strickland of Lakeland, Georgia; Daughter and son-in-law, Christie Hill (Matt) of Tifton, Georgia; Daughter and son-in-law, Alice Powell (Michael) of Marietta, Georgia; Son, Gaylon Miller of Lakeland, Georgia. Granddaughters: Hagan Heard of Tifton, Georgia; Anna Rose Powell and Ella Nicole Powell of Marietta, Georgia; and Mercedes Miller of Stratford, Texas; Sister and brother-in-law, Patricia Hancock (Jerry) of Irwinville, Georgia. Numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 2:00 PM in the Lakeland Chapel of Music Funeral Services, with burial to follow at Beaver Dam Cemetery in Ray City, Georgia, where military honors will be rendered. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at Bethany Hospice, along with his devoted caregivers; Shay Hernandez, Lisa Spangler, Robert Kelly, and Chris Crumpton. Kind words and expressions of sympathy may be left for the family at www.musicfuneralservices.com . The Strickland family is being served by the professional and caring staff of Music Funeral Services of Lakeland.