Juanita Strickland
Juanita Strickland, 90, of Chattanooga, entered into celestial peace at her home, surrounded by loved ones, on Monday, July 7, 2025.
Born on Nov. 24, 1934, in Alexander City, Al., Juanita embraced her faith in Jesus Christ at an early age and remained a devoted member of Hamlet Chapel CME Church throughout her life. She was educated in the Chattanooga City School system and became a passionate advocate for lifelong learning. Juanita taught Adult Basic Education classes, guiding and encouraging those seeking to further their education, and served as a dedicated cafeteria manager within the Chattanooga City School system for 18 years.
Juanita’s unwavering commitment to her church and community was evident in her many roles at Hamlett Chapel CME Church, including:
- Church Secretary (1962–1984)
- Secretary to the District Conference (two years)
- Member, Stewardess Board #1
- Member, Usher Board
- Director of Christian Education
- Superintendent of Sunday School
- Member, Gospel Choir
- Member, Steward Board
- Member, Finance Committee
- Secretary of Plays and Pageants (Local Missionary Society)
- Delegate to District and Annual Conferences (1965–2008)
- Most recently, a member of the Missionary Ministry
Juanita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Willie Marvin Strickland; her mother, Annie Ruth Evans; her son, Nathaniel Strickland; her daughter, Flora Ann Lewis; her favorite aunt, Everlenar Auls; and her cousin, Willie Alvin Auls.
Her legacy of love and faith continues through her devoted family.
She leaves precious memories to be cherished by her daughter, Marchyrel Leverette; son, Antony (Carolyn) Strickland, Kenneth Strickland, Herschel (Jackie) Strickland, Travis Strickland all of Chattanooga; daughter-in-law, Leattrice Strickland; cousin, Ruth Auls; grandchildren, Kenneth Copeland, LaTonya (Craig) Steward, Katrice Strickland, Kevin (Hanna) Strickland, Clarissa Shackelford, Juanita Strickland, Darrius Strickland, Courtney (Willie) Horne, Nathaniel Chris-Antoni Strickland, Darrell Strickland, Marvin Caldwell, NeVaughn Bridges Sada (Jamal) Torrey, Crystal Poole; great-grandchildren, Kedrick Jackson, Shaquita (Hannibal) Ruiz, Craig (Chastity) Steward, Shadarria Strickland, Don Williams, Mariah (Demetrius) Wiley, Nia Taylor, Kamoryn Strickland, Kasyn Strickland, Haidyn Strickland, DeShawn Shackleford, Darriona Garrett, Marquez, Fortson, Cameron Brooks, Darius Strickland, Jr., JaDarius Strickland, Derreck Strickland, Victoria Strickland, Jamie Strickland, Chris-Anthoni Strickland, Dorian Strickland, Darryn Strickland, Christian Jones, NeVaughn Bridges, Jr., KeVon Caldwell, DeMarcus Caldwell, Marlesha Caldwell, Marvin Caldwell, Jr., Jasia Gladden, Janiya Williams, Jaleigh Williams, Journey Torrey, and Jace Torrey; 29 great-great grandchildren; cousins, Alvin Auls and Shamari Auls; special daughter, Helena Kelly; her best friend, Mary C Benion; a host of other relatives and friends.
A celebration of Juanita’s remarkable life will be held with a viewing at 10 a.m., followed by the service at noon, on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Hamlett Chapel CME Church, 2510 Cowart Street. Interment will follow at Lakewood Memory Gardens East.
Arrangements are entrusted to John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Avenue, Chattanooga, 423-622-9995.
Juanita Strickland’s legacy of faith, service, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her.