Barbara Franks Strickland 78 of Opelika, AL died Wednesday, February 3, 2021 at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, AL.

Barbara was born in Macon County, NC to Jake and Belle Franks.

She is survived by children Donnie Hugh Strickland Jr. of Valley, Norman Strickland (Bill) of Las Vegas, NV, Darryell Strickland (Dawn) of Las Vegas, NV, Debbie Strickland Chism (Jimmy) of Opelika, Darron Strickland (Brandy) of Opelika, nephew/nieces who were like children Lamar Daniel, Pam Weyerman, and Elizabeth Waters. Sister Geneva O’Shields, sisters in law Gwen and Syble Franks, and brother in law Jerry Strickland. Grandchildren Kyle, Kristine, Kourtney, Zach, Carter, Jarred, Emily, Ricky, and Jessica. Great grandchildren Peyton, Chipper, Damon, Jasmine, Delilah, Aneliece, Kamirun, Kaiden, Savannah, Karen, Katie, and Julie.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Donnie Strickland Sr., daughter Deirdra Strickland Odneal, grandson LCpl Jeffrey Brandon Strickland USMC, brothers Orvel, Canary, Edward, Vernon, and Lewis, sisters Wilma, Leila, and Carolyn. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church Opelika. She worked as a Foster Grandmother with EASE at King Head Start Center in Auburn, AL.

She enjoyed quilting, sewing, cooking, playing bingo, traveling, camping and spending time with other retired military families. Her greatest love was her family, especially grand and great-grandchildren and her love and faith in God. She was proud to be a military wife and supported military and law enforcement.

Graveside services will be held Monday the 8th, at 11 am CST/12 pm EST at Rest Haven Cemetery in Lanett, AL with Rev. Sean Rezek officiating.

Jeff Jones Funeral Home LaFayette, AL is handling arrangements