Alfred "Gerald" Strickland

Alfred "Gerald" Strickland, 72, of Wake Forest NC, passed away peacefully at home on June 29, 2025 after battling dementia for the past few years.
Gerald was born in Durham NC on May 12, 1953 to Augustus and Kathleen (Jeans) Strickland and grew up on the family farm in Bunn NC. He graduated from Bunn High School in 1971 and attended Louisburg College. He later attended NC State University and obtained degrees in Biology and Civil Engineering. He went on to a career as a hydrologist with the US Geological Survey in Raleigh for 32 years, retiring in 2018.
Gerald enjoyed being outdoors and was happiest when he was traveling to new places or hiking out in the woods. He fulfilled his wish of visiting all 50 states and had been to most of the National Parks in the US. In his early adult life, he loved fishing – surf-fishing or deep-sea fishing. Later on he started a new hobby – collecting license plates from around the US and particularly NC city tags. He also had a kind heart and would never say no to another stray or homeless animal. He loved his fur-babies and they will greatly miss his warm lap and snuggles.
Gerald is survived by his wife of 31 years, Gail Urbanek, as well as a brother, Glenn Strickland and wife Linda of Sandston VA. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews and their families: Michael Ward, Mark Ward, Kathy Ward, Charlene Davis, Susan Marler, Bradley Johnson, Kenneth Strickland and Lisa Perry. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Bruce Strickland, sisters Evelyn Ward and husband Max, and Gladys Johnson and husband Dennis, and niece Caroline Ellavsky.
Special thanks to Transitions Lifecare Hospice for making this time as peaceful as possible. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Nature Conservancy, Transitions Lifecare, Alzheimer's Association or any animal rescue group.
A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, July 13, 2025 from 2:00 - 4:00 pm at Bright Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 405 S. Main Street, Wake Forest 27597.
Arrangements are with Bright Funeral Home in Wake Forest and condolences may be made at www.brightfunerals.com. To send flowers to the family of Alfred, please visit our floral store.