Neil H. Strickland

Neil Hansel Strickland, born in Cairo, Georgia, in 1936, passed away on Friday, March 20, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind a legacy defined by strength, commitment, and unwavering loyalty.

Neil was a man of deep character-strong, dedicated, and steadfast in all aspects of his life. A devoted Christian, he was a man of strong faith whose beliefs guided his actions, relationships, and the way he lived each day. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, an experience that reflected his sense of duty and helped shape the discipline and integrity he carried throughout his life.

In 1967, he founded Strickland General Agency, a managing general agency built through hard work, integrity, and perseverance. His success was never about recognition, but about the stability and opportunity he created for his employees and his family. He also served as President of the National Association of Professional Surplus Lines Offices Ltd., contributing to the advancement of his industry.

Throughout his distinguished career, Neil held numerous leadership roles. He was currently serving as a Director at First Century Bancorp. He previously served as a Director at Wells Real Estate Investment Trust, Inc., CNB Holdings, Inc., Columbia Property Trust, Inc., First Capital Bancorp, Inc., and First Covenant Bank. His leadership and insight were widely respected across the financial and insurance sectors.

He is survived by his devoted wife and best friend of 33 years, Barbara Strickland; his daughter, Lou Reavis, and her husband, Terry; and his son, Cliff Strickland, and his wife, April. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Kathryn Whitlow, as well as his cherished lifelong friends, Merwyn and Dorothy Larsen. Neil was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren and a great-grandfather to fifteen great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward his strength and values. Though known as Neil to many, he was lovingly called "Papa" by those closest to him.

Neil divided his time between Dawsonville, Georgia, and Orange Beach, Alabama, where he found peace in the sunshine and joy in life's simple pleasures. Whether on the porch at the lake, at the farm, or by the beach, he was happiest soaking in the warmth of the sun and quietly appreciating the beauty around him.

He and Barbara shared a life full of adventure, traveling the world together and embracing every opportunity to experience something new. Neil was an avid outdoorsman and adventurer who enjoyed skiing, snowmobiling, RV camping, scuba diving, hunting, and fishing. He also loved woodworking, taking pride in creating things by hand that would last-much like the life he built.

Above all, Neil was a family man-dependable, principled, and deeply devoted. He cherished time spent with his family and close friends more than anything else, and his presence brought strength and comfort to those around him.

His legacy lives on through his family, his work, and the countless lives he touched through his example. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Condolences may be expressed at www.beardenfuneralhome.com.

Bearden Funeral Home, Dawsonville, Georgia.