William Jacob Strickland

William J.Strickland

1945 - 2025

"It is the Lord that goes before you.

He will be with you; He will not leave you or forsake you.

Do not fear or be dismayed."

Deuteronomy 31:8

On July 14th, 2025

William J. Strickland, of Ocean View, DE was ushered into the arms of Jesus. He died from angiosarcoma, diagnosed just 3 months earlier.

Bill was born February 18,1945 in LaPlata, MD to Katherine Swann Strickland and William J. Strickland,Sr. He grew up in Washington, DC and spent much of his adult life in the Annapolis MD area. In 2012, Bill and Jill built their retirement

home in Ocean View, DE.

He attended Charlotte Hall Military Academy, where he played football, lacrosse and excelled as a sharpshooter. Bill had tremendous respect for his instructors and felt military school served him well.

Bill worked as an apprentice under the mentorship of his brother-in-law, learning various aspects of the construction industry. Furthering his education launched him into a successful career in senior project management at Donohoe Companies, Inc and later Centennial Contractors Enterprises.

While he found his professional career rewarding, Bill most enjoyed his "retirement job" at Eagles Landing Golf Course in Ocean City, MD. He valued the friendship of his co-workers and the passion they shared for the game of golf. A highlight in his life was traveling to Scotland to play at St Andrew's in 2022.

Bill and Jill enjoyed traveling to national parks, marveling at the beauty surrounding them.

He was gifted in refinishing furniture, enjoyed reading and was fascinated by archeology and WWII history.

While Bill liked most sports, he had a lifelong love of lacrosse. He played into his 50's and coached his daughter and son, who both eventually played in college. As a proud "Papa", he enjoyed watching Evan and Gia continue the Strickland tradition of playing the game.

Known for his positivity, warm smile and humor, Bill was a joy to be around. He was deeply grateful for time with family, especially his children and grands.

Bill was a man of faith; a devoted follower of Christ. He and Jill were longtime members of Bay Area Community Church in Annapolis, MD. He valued the men in his life that inspired his spiritual growth.

Billy was a loving husband to Jill Strickland for over 52 years, a devoted father to Eryn Strickland Young, Eric Strickland (Melissa),

proud Papa to Gia and Jimmy Young, Evan Strickland and Jenna and Jordan Hensel. Bill will be lovingly remembered by his sister, Kay Chroniger (Al), his sisters-in-law Jennifer Rothgeb (Jim Esposito), Patti Rothgeb, and brothers-in-law Wendel Myers, Paul Pinsky and Frank Rothgeb. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Bill is predeceased by his parents, sister Patricia Myers and brother Tommy Strickland.

Billy's life was greatly enriched by his longtime friendships. The blessings of shared joy, laughter and tears were sources of tremendous strength throughout the years.

The richness of family and friends was most evident in the last month of his life. Daily visits from those near and far to share their love and respect of him were a source of endless joy.

While we are comforted that Bill is now at peace, he will be greatly missed and remain in our hearts forever.

A Celebration of Life will be:

Sunday, August 17, 2025

2:00 PM

Bay Area Community Church

884 Chesterfield Rd

Annapolis MD

In lieu of flowers, donations

can be made to:

samaritanspurse.org OR

Cancer.org\HopeLodgeBaltimoredonate