Marvin "Jay" Jasper Strickland, Jr.

Marvin Jasper (Jay) Strickland, Jr., Servant of God, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Saturday, January 28th, 2023, surrounded by loved ones, at 94 years of age. He was preceded in death by his wife, Emma Vivian Strickland. He is survived by his children, Michael Strickland, Richard Strickland, and Paula Baughn; his son-in-law, David Baughn; and his grandchildren, Kaleigh and Krista Baughn. Jay was full of laughter until the end of his life on earth and was known for making people smile with his quick wit. Prior to his years spent serving his family, Jay spent many years serving his country in the United States Navy as Yeoman 1st Class. His naval service began in September 1945. He served aboard the newly commissioned USS Chicago and is a Plank Owner. He also served on the USS Princeton, USS Curtis and USS Oglethorpe in the Pacific Fleet during both World War II and Korean Wars.

He was honorably discharged in May 1949. He later served in the U.S. Navy again during the Korean War from June 1951-July 1952. He was honorably discharged in March 1954. During his time in the Navy, Jay received the Victory Ribbon and Japanese Occupation Ribbon as well as the American Theater Award and Asiatic Pacific Award. He was also a member of the Royal Order of Guinea Pigs involved with the testing of nuclear weapons. In his civilian life, Jay continued to serve his country through the postal service for 30 years until he retired in 1987. During his tenure, he received two awards for official suggestions that were implemented; he also was presented the "Million Mile Club" award for accident-free driving, presented by the National Safety Council. He also worked as a salesman for Lance crackers, as a real estate agent, and for the Raleigh Housing Authority. Additionally, he owned a service station. Jay spent his retirement years with his friends and family in Fuquay-Varina, where he continued visiting the sick and shut-ins, dining out as a regular at local restaurants with friends as well as avid bird-watching at home. His life will be remembered and celebrated at a funeral service that will take place Friday, February 3, 2023 at Fellowship Baptist Church, 5029 Old Stage Road, Raleigh, NC. Visitation is noon to 1:00 p.m. with service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial to follow at Montlawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers please make a contribution in Marvin's name to https://k9sforwarriors.org and the phone number is Toll-Free: 1-888-819-0112