It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charlotte Ann Strickland, a beloved wife, mother, and friend, who left us peacefully on February 24, 2025, at the age of 91. Mrs. Strickland was born on September 20, 1933, in Elmira, New York, the youngest of four daughters to Mr. Clarence Paul Gilroy and Mrs. Pauline A. Gilroy. She was a woman of great compassion, known for her faith and love for her Lord Jesus Christ, and, and unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Mrs. Strickland grew up in Elmira, NY. Shortly after graduating, she moved to New Jersey to take a job as a telephone operator. During this time, she met and married Mr. Horace Strickland and soon started a family. In the mid-1950s, the Stricklands (Charlotte, Horace, and son Stephen) moved to Charlotte, North Carolina. After the family added sons Scot and Stacey, the Stricklands move to Lake Wylie, South Carolina to enjoy the lake life. In 1960, the family grew with the birth of son Tracy. By the late 1960s, daughter Shelly and son Paul were added. Mrs. Strickland spent most of her time raising and caring for this large family with love and good cooking.

Raising a large family on Lake Wylie was somewhat of an adventure during the 1960s and 1970s. In those days, few families took up permanent residence on the lake. Most houses were second homes of people living in Charlotte, North Carolina. The area was sparsely populated back then in contrast to the current population density. Mrs. Strickland made the modest house a loving home for her family.

Mrs. Strickland enjoyed living the lake life, especially boating, swimming, and fishing. She also enjoyed gardening and furniture refinishing and even ran a furniture refinishing business located at the old Five Points location in Bethel Community.

Mrs. Strickland was a very resilient woman. Her first-born child was a special needs child requiring special care giving attention. In the early 1980s, she suffered a freak accident to the head resulting in a partial loss of sight. Despite this injury, she remained very active the rest of her life. At the age of 82, she earned an associate’s degree in ministry.

As we mourn the loss of Charlotte Ann Strickland, we also celebrate her remarkable life. Her legacy lives on through her family, her hospitality, and the countless lives she touched. She leaves behind a void that can never be filled, but her memory will forever be cherished.

Charlotte is survived by her children, Stephen, Scot (and his wife, Judith), Stacey (and his wife, Sharon), Tracy, Shelly, and Paul (and his wife, Sandie), her grandchildren, Logan, Michael, Cassidy (and her husband Brandon), Ben, and Olivia, and greatgrandchild Henry.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, February 28, 2025, in Bethel Presbyterian Church Cemetery.

Charlotte was a lady of love, compassion, and hospitality. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her spirit will continue to guide and inspire us. Rest in peace, Miss Charlotte. You will be forever missed but never forgotten.

The family asks for contributions in lieu of flowers to be sent to Hospice & Community Care, P.O. Box 993, Rock Hill, SC 29731.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.