J.R. Strickland

Jerry Raymond "J.R." Strickland went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the age of 77, following an almost year-long battle with cancer caused by exposure to Agent Orange during his service in the Vietnam War.
Born in Jasper, Florida, J.R. graduated from Englewood High School in Jacksonville, Florida, before answering the call to serve his country with honor and distinction as a U.S. Army Officer during the Vietnam War.
As a helicopter pilot, he flew Cobra gunships and scout helicopters, engaging in some of the war's most intense battles. Serving with the 17th Air Cavalry, attached to the 101st Airborne Division, he flew daily and nightly missions in support of ground troops. His bravery was tested in major engagements, including the Battle of Khe Sanh, the Battle of Loc Ninh near the Cambodian border, and the Battle of Bu Dop.
J.R. completed two tours in Vietnam-first from 1967 to 1968 as a Second Lieutenant, quickly rising to First Lieutenant and Recon Platoon Leader with the 1st Infantry Division. He returned from 1971 to 1972 as a Captain and platoon leader of both Gun and Scout platoons, flying Cobra helicopters, PH-500 scout helicopters, and Hueys, providing critical air support across Vietnam.
For his valor and service, he was highly decorated, receiving:
The Silver Star
Two Bronze Stars
A Purple Heart
Two Army Commendation Medals
An Air Medal with V for Valor
17 clusters-one for every 50 combat hours flown
After his military service, J.R. continued his lifelong commitment to protecting and serving others as a police officer with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office (JSO).
In January 1973, he began his law enforcement career as a Patrolman before transferring to the K-9 Unit, where he served with dedication for nearly 20 years. Following a knee injury, he retired in April 2006, after 33 years with the agency.
Before his retirement from JSO, J.R. and his wife, Gwen, opened Faith Jewelers in Murray Hill (1165 Edgewood Ave. South), where he worked until 2020, when health issues prevented him from continuing. Faith Jewelers remains in operation, run by the Strickland family.
In 2024, J.R. was diagnosed with cancer. Despite his battle, he remained steadfast in his faith and deeply devoted to his family.
Beyond his career, J.R. was a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend, outdoorsman, and hero. He leaves behind a legacy of strong Christian faith, bravery, dedication, and deep love for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, his family, and his country.
Service Details:
A visitation will be held at 2:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 3:00 PM on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at North Jacksonville Baptist Church (8531 N. Main Street), officiated by Dr. Herb Reavis.
JSO Honors will be rendered following the service.
A private burial for family will be held at a later date at Jacksonville National Cemetery, where U.S. Army Honors will be conferred.
In Lieu of Flowers:
The family requests that memorial gifts be made to the North Jacksonville Baptist Church "Future Is Now" building program which will benefit the building campaign for the Children's Ministry. Donations can be made online at njbc.org by selecting "Give," "Donate," and indicating "Memorial – Strickland."