Herbert C. STRICKLAND Sr.

STRICKLAND, Herbert C. Sr.

Herbert C. Strickland, Sr., 98, a long-time resident of East Hampton, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 26 in East Haddam with his family by his side. His beloved wife Josephine, predeceased him on April 29, 2012. Born on October 29, 1914 in Hebron to the late John S. and Millie Lockwood Strickland, he was the second youngest and last surviving of fifteen siblings and a half brother. Herbert and Josephine married on July 24, 1937 and would have celebrated 75 years of marriage in July 2012. In 1947, they made their home at 48 Walnut Avenue and resided there until shortly before her death. Together, they built a life and family with love, hard work, steady habits and faith. Herbert not only witnessed significant changes during his lifetime, he positively contributed to his country, community and family as a man of quiet strength, unwavering resilience and steady determination. Herbert spent his early years living and working on local farms along with his brother, Clarence with whom he remained close throughout their lives. During World War II, he served his country when he was assigned to a classified defense project working on radar components for Remington Rand in Middletown. His work helped save hundreds of Allied military and civilian lives and for which he received a Letter of Commendation from the Secretary of the then US Department of War. With his friend and business partner Leroy Goff, Sr., he owned and operated G&S Service before going on to work for the historic bell factory, Bevin Brothers, in East Hampton. At age 65 and not yet ready to retire, he became the school custodian at East Hampton's Center School where he said "the kids kept him young", finally retiring when he turned 80. Herbert was a dedicated member of Independent Order of Odd Fellows, serving as its Noble Grand. He also attended Christ Church of Middle Haddam. His love and devotion for his family is his enduring legacy. He was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and uncle. His greatest joy and comfort was spending time with his family. A steady, guiding presence in his family's life, he proudly supported, encouraged and cheered on his family's activities and life's accomplishments. He was always quick to share a hug, a smile and a laugh with a witty comment to family and friends alike. Herbert and Josephine, with their constant canine companions, Mitzi followed by Trixie, enjoyed rides throughout New England and spending time at their home in Vermont. True animal lovers, they also adopted two stray cats and gave them a loving home. In addition to their pets, they also spoiled their family's dogs and would always offer a treat to animals they met on their travels. He was a lifelong customer of Harry's Burger Stand and loved his coffee. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Herbert C. Strickland Jr., and Elizabeth Strickland; his granddaughters, Kirsten M. (Strickland) Reilly and her husband, Robert, and Maureen F. Strickland; and great grandchildren, Meghan, Ian, and Sean Reilly. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Frances Czaja and numerous nieces and nephews. Herbert's family would like to thank the nurses and CAN's for the kind and loving care provided to Herbert during the last year. We doubt they will ever have a cup of coffee again without thinking of him.
Services will be held on Thursday, May 30 at 1:30 p.m. in the Spencer Funeral Home 112 Main St. East Hampton. Burial will follow in the family plot in Lake View Cemetery, East Hampton. Calling hours will be held Thursday from 12:30 p.m. until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the East Hampton Ambulance Association P.O. Box 144 East Hampton, CT 06424 or to an animal charity of the donor's choice. To leave online condolences please visit www.spencerfuneralhomeinc.com.