Thomas "Tommy" Presley Strickland

Mr. Strickland attended Kingston Elementary School, Cass High School, and Coosa Technical School. His early career began in the carpet and textile industry, where he started by sweeping the floors of a mill, worked his way up through the business, and later co-founded Benchmark Carpet Mills. After selling Benchmark, what began as a hobby in real estate became his next venture. His passion for real estate and development remained with him throughout his life.

Mr. Strickland was deeply involved in serving his community and found great purpose in doing so. He served on numerous boards and authorities, including the Cartersville Development Authority, Development Authority of Cartersville, Georgia Highlands Foundation Board of Trustees, Bartow-Cartersville Joint Development Authority, Joint Cartersville/Bartow County Regional Industrial Development Authority, and the Cartersville-Bartow County Convention and Visitors Bureau, among many others. He was instrumental in bringing several major industries to Bartow County, including Toyo Tire and Anheuser-Busch. He was also one of the founding members of the North Georgia Apartment Association and helped revive the American Heart Association in the Bartow County area. Tommy was a dedicated member of the Bartow County Chamber of Commerce and served as co-chair of the United Way of Bartow County.

His proudest accomplishment, however, was his family.

Tommy enjoyed spending time at Barnsley Gardens and at his second home on Singer Island, Florida. He loved playing golf at courses around the world, traveling with his family, and sharing countless stories and adventures with those he loved. Much earlier in life, he had a passion for horses and equestrian showing, along with a love for fast cars, especially his Road Runner. Tommy was known for his larger-than-life personality, his unforgettable stories, and the joy he brought to those around him.

Tommy is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Munsey Strickland, of 57 years, and his children, Amanda Strickland Temples (Don) and Thomas Eric Strickland (Mandi). Affectionately known as “Poppy” to his grandchildren, he is survived by Camille Temples Abney (Wright) and Caroline Temples Moon (Adam); Andrew, Ethan, and Eli Strickland; and Brandon, Bella, and Christian Cox. He is also survived by his siblings, Jerry (Patricia), Larry (Jeanie), Robert, Davy (Candice), and Karen Strickland, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Mickey Strickland; and his sisters, Barbara Brown and Cathy Lee. Mr. Strickland was a dedicated member of Kingston Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Kingston Baptist Church or to a charity of your choice.

Kingston Baptist Church: PO Box 369, Kingston, GA 30145

Visitation will be held at Owen Funeral Home, 12 Collins Dr, Cartersville, Georgia 30120, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Owen Funeral Home, 12 Collins Dr, Cartersville, Georgia 30120, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 2:00 pm.