Obituary of Mary Lena Strickland

April 12, 1929 – July 27, 2018

Mary Lena Strickland.  Age 89 of Ecorse, Michigan.

Beloved wife of US Army Veteran James Baltimore Strickland, who preceded (2002) her in death. They were married in Toledo, OH on July 11, 1966.

Mary retired from Ecorse Public Schools and ensured that she kept in contact with co-workers and friends. 

She was baptized at an early age at Friendship Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, and upon moving to Michigan, she joined (in 1967) Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church (Ecorse, MI), where she remained a member.  She was actively involved in the mission and Sunday School.

Mary truly loved the LORD and made sure that everyone knew about Him.  She did daily praise and worship, and enjoyed reading the bible, listening to music and singing praises.

She was a jazzy dresser and had a special hat to compliment every outfit and attire.  She enjoyed traveling and sharing stories of her many adventures.

Mary was passionate about everything that she loved, and as her health began to fail her, a special angel (Adrienne Suttles) and several other devoted friends vowed to watch over her and provided assistance as needed.

She leaves behind, a host of cousins: Doris Reed Russell, Jean Davis, Natasha Looper, Anthony Looper Jr., Tyesha Looper, an abundance of distant relatives and friends (long-time friend - Beatrice Redwine).

Mary wanted everyone to know: “I am NOT afraid to die, because I know that when that time comes, I’m going to sing with the Lord”