Nick Strickland, Jr.

On Monday, September 1, 2025, Nick Strickland, Jr. passed away at Pine Pointe Hospice in Macon, Georgia.

Throughout his 92 wonderful years, he was a steady light to all that knew him. He leaves behind a family who will continue his legacy with love: his devoted wife, Sylvia; daughters Elaine Watson (Tim) and Elizabeth Hatton; grandchildren Kayla Watson, Kassie Watson (Chris), and Caleb Nicholas John Hatton; great-grandsons Whyatt and Cecil; nieces Susan Remillard (Page) and Cathy Nelson (Lee) who he loved as his own daughters; three special girls Kathy P, Beth, and Wendy; two stepsons Bryan Hershner and Andrew Hershner; step grandchildren, Marcus Hershner and Trenton Hershner; as well as extended family and dear friends.

Growing up in Fort Valley, Nick attended Fort Valley High School, where he graduated in 1951. He was a natural athlete and played every sport, excelling as the starting quarterback for three years. In addition to his talents on the field, he participated in one-act plays, showcasing the lively personality and sense of humor that would become his trademark throughout life. He carried the Olympic torch through Ft. Valley, a moment of pride for both him and the community.

After high school, he furthered his education at Mercer University and Georgia Southwestern. Later, Nick went to work alongside his father at the family-owned Strickland Hardware Store. Never one to sit still for long, Nick began a second career at Fort Valley State University, serving as Conference Coordinator until his retirement after ten years. Upon his retirement from Fort Valley State University, he worked at Lane Southern Orchard for twenty years.

Nick was also deeply involved in civic life. A proud member of the Fort Valley Kiwanis Club, he served as president for one year and was instrumental in launching the Arrive Alive program in Georgia during the 1970s, helping improve road safety across the state. His heart for service and love of community touched countless lives.

Raised in the Fort Valley Baptist Church, Nick later became a devoted member of Fort Valley Methodist Church, where he worshipped faithfully for the last 30 years.

A celebration of Mr. Nick’s life will be held on Wednesday, September 10, at 2:00 p.m. at the Methodist Church in Ft. Valley.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial donations be given in memory of Nick Strickland, Jr. to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by visiting https://www.stjude.org/donate .

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.