Eddie Joe Strickland passed away on Friday, February 6, 2026, surrounded by the love and legacy of a life defined by hard work, sacrifice, and family. He was a man of strength, integrity, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.
Eddie was born to Thomas Henry Strickland and Ollie L Zirkle Strickland. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wives, Beverly Ann Strickland and Michelle Strickland; his four brothers; and his two sisters.
He is survived by his two children, David Shain Strickland and Tami Louise Strickland; his four grandchildren, Daniel, Morgan, Kendra, and Angel; ten great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; many nieces and nephews; and his special friend of 20 years, Amelia Cortez.
Eddie grew up during the Great Depression and faced hardship at a very young age. After the death of his father, he left school to care for his mother and siblings, stepping into responsibility long before most boys his age ever had to. Even in those difficult times, he found joy in simple pleasures—baseball, kick the can, and time spent outdoors.
Hard work was Eddie’s way of life. He could tear anything down and rebuild it better than before. Much of the surrounding area bears his craftsmanship and dedication. He never worked alone, everyone on the job was family. He built not just structures, but opportunities, stability, and pride for those working alongside him.
He met Beverly Knight at a circus in Burkett, Texas, and six months later they were married at Burkett Baptist Church. They shared 35 long and loving years together until her passing in November of 1996. Eddie later married Michelle Lafoon, and they spent six years together before her passing in November of 2005.
Eddie worked tirelessly to ensure his family never experienced the hardships he endured growing up. He built his own homes and passed along his knowledge freely, teaching anyone willing to listen. His wisdom came from experience, his lessons from lived truth.
Many mornings found him with his coffee buddies at the café, sharing stories of “the old days”—jobs worked, places built, and memories made. Those conversations were a testament to the life he lived and the impact he left behind.
Above all else, Eddie Joe Strickland was the family’s rock. He was their stability, their teacher, their foundation. To those who loved him, he was more than a grandfather or father was Pop’s. His legacy lives on in the generations he shaped, the values he instilled, and the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the Burkett Cemetery in Burkett, Texas. The family will have a time of visitation on Thursday, February from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel at 309 N E 4th Street, Cross Plains, Texas.
