Maryann Folsom Strickland

Maryann Folsom Strickland, age 75, of Hahira, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Langdale Hospice House, following a sudden illness.

Maryann was the beloved daughter of the late William Ernest Folsom, Sr. and the late Lula Brown Folsom Finney, of Valdosta, Georgia.

She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, James “Rea” and Carol Ricks, of Myakka City, Florida, and Christopher and Julie Hart, of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

She is also survived by her grandchildren: Britton Ricks (Shelbie) of Bradenton, Florida; Matthew Ricks of Valdosta, Georgia; and Peter Hart, Will Hart, and Lily Wilson (Austin), all of Grand Rapids, Michigan. She was the proud great-grandmother of Hadleigh Blanche Ricks of Bradenton, Florida. Her roles as mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt were ones she cherished deeply and held close to her heart.

Maryann is further survived by her siblings, Bob Folsom (Alana) and Barbara Folsom, both of Valdosta, Georgia, along with several nieces and nephews, including Carol McCullough and Lisa-Anne Cummins, who lovingly and devotedly cared for her during the months leading up to her passing.

She is also survived by her longtime friend, Wanda Hawke, whose friendship was a true blessing in her life.

Maryann was preceded in death by her parents and her older siblings, Bill Folsom (Sylvia) and Dean McCullough.

Maryann lived a life marked by hard work, generosity, and compassion. She spent the majority of her career as a merchandiser and embraced a variety of interests throughout her life, including managing a horse stable in Lake Park, Georgia. A selfless soul, she would often go without so that others might have what they needed.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—time at the beach, working in the yard, and creating through arts and crafts. Maryann’s sense of humor and vibrant personality could brighten any room, bringing light and joy to those around her. Those who knew her best will remember her strength, her laughter, and the quiet ways she showed love.

Her family takes comfort in the promise of God’s grace, knowing that Maryann now rests in His presence, reunited with loved ones who have gone before her.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 17, at 1:00 p.m., at New Friendship Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, in Hahira, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Maryann’s memory to Hospice of South Georgia or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Kind words and expressions of sympathy can 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 Valdosta.