Mary Belle Smith Strickland
Mrs. Mary Belle Smith Strickland, 84, formerly of Garden City, passed away on Friday, July 3rd, 2020 in Simpsonville, SC after well-fought battles with disease. Mrs. Strickland was born on April 25th, 1936 in Bryan County, Georgia to the late Kyle and Sophie Smith. She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years Shelby R. Strickland, Sr. Mary Belle grew up in Pembroke and graduated from Bryan County High School. She spread her love for children for many years as a teacher for grades preschool through middle school.
She was a faithful member of the Chapel-in-the-Gardens Presbyterian Church where she was on numerous committees and served as a Sunday School Teacher.
Those surviving Mrs. Strickland include her three sons S. Russell Strickland, Jr., Brian D. Strickland and Kenneth L. Strickland; her brothers Kyle Smith and Calvin Smith; her sisters-in-law Vivian Smith and Merilyn Smith; her daughters-in-law Debra Strickland, Georgienne Strickland, and Patricia Strickland, eight grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Due to Covid-19, there will be no visitation. An outdoor Graveside service will be held on Saturday July 11 at 11 A.M. at Northside Cemetery in Pembroke, GA with Pastor Daren L. Russell officiating.
Remembrances can be sent to Chapel-in-the-Gardens Presbyterian Church, 93 Main Street, Garden City, GA 31408 or to the Alzheimer’s Association.
My dear cousins Russell, Brian and Ken; I am saddened to learn of your mother’s passing. She was a force to be reckoned with back in the day. I cherish memories of all of us at Fripp Island on the beach and fishing, playing cards and laughing. Peace be with all of you and your families.
Ken, it is sad to lose our Mother. Mary was a sweet lady. Prayers for you and your family. Love to you, Patricia and the boys
Thelma & Kirby Ballew