Thad Edgar Strickland, 86, of Spring Lake, born July 15, 1937, in Tarboro, N.C., passed away in his home peacefully Aug. 9, 2023. Thad was the son of Lemon Cornwallis and Lillian Marie Strickland. He was preceded in death by his two sisters, Lillian Marie Harrell and Gladys Strickland; three brothers, Jack, William (Bill), and Lemon Jr. Strickland; and daughters, Debra Strickland and Shannon Sloan.
He is survived by his wife, Bettie Tench Strickland; sons, Thad (Nancy), Micheal, Jimmy (Mary Anne) Strickland, and David Charles Finch; and daughter, Michelle (Brad) Stroup. He is also remembered by many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, special community members, extended family and friends.
Thad married the love of his life in 1956 as a young man. Together they raised their children in many places, but eventually, they settled down in Spring Lake, N.C. In 1968, Thad lost his arms in a tragic electrical accident, yet he never let this define him as a man. In the determination to never be viewed as different, he lived his life working full time, camping, fishing, boating, caring for animals, and sharing his passions with all who knew and loved him. He inspired others to defy any odds they faced and strive to achieve greatness doing it. He will be missed by all those who loved him.