Carolyn Riddle Strickland, 94, of Fayetteville, passed away peacefully at FirstHealth Hospice and Palliative Care on Saturday, July 4th, 2026.

Carolyn was born in Cumberland County on January 25, 1932, to the late Ernest Edward Riddle and Vera Mae Brady Riddle. Born and raised in Cumberland County, she was a founding member of Northwood Temple. Carolyn retired from Trailways Bus Company and later from J.C. Penney, where she worked in administrative positions for many years. Even in her 80s, she enjoyed working at her daughter’s downtown business, Turner Lane.

Carolyn had a deep love for animals and enjoyed gardening. She and her late husband were active members of the Camellia Club. She was devoted to her family and especially cherished the time she spent with her grandsons. Carolyn will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, and friend whose kindness and warmth touched many lives.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, James Charles “Charlie” Strickland.

She is survived by her daughters, Elaine Strickland Kelley and husband Jack, and Becky Strickland Spell; her grandsons, Brad Spell and wife Brittany, and Turner Kelly; along with extended family members and many dear friends.

The family will receive friends from 11-11:50 on Friday, July 10, 2026 at Northwood Temple, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 noon. Burial will follow at Lafayette Memorial Park.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of FirstHealth Hospice and Palliative Care for the compassionate care and support they provided.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301.

Online condolences may be made at www.jerniganwarren.com.