Carol Lynn Strickland

May 13, 1933 – July 8, 2025

Carol Lynn Strickland passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, July 8th at 11:30 PM at Porter Adventist Hospice, following a brief stay. She was 92 years old and lived a full, beautiful life anchored in faith, family, and community.

Born in Denver, Colorado, on May 13, 1933 at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Carol was the beloved only child of Lois and Gale Schlotterback. She grew up in Denver’s Hilltop neighborhood and attended Morey Middle School and East High School, graduating with the Class of 1951 (?) . After high school, she went on to earn an associate degree in secretarial studies from the University of Denver. She was a member of the --- sorority, where she made many lifetime friends.

Carol began her professional career at Travelers Insurance Company, where she would meet her husband, William Edward Strickland of Lubbock, Texas. The two were married in May of 1957, and soon began their family. They welcomed their daughter, Debra Lynn Strickland (now McKenney), in 1958, followed by their son, Thomas Edward Strickland, in 1961.

Carol and Ed shared a vibrant life together, filled with joy, laughter, and dance. In their early years, they loved spending Friday nights at the Trocadero Ballroom at Elitch Gardens, dancing the night away. It was one of their favorite traditions—a reflection of the lighthearted love they carried through their marriage.

They also shared a deep love of travel and adventure. They camped in the beautiful mountains surrounding Redstone and Marble Colorado, as members of Ports of Call Travel Club, they traveled often with their closest friends—Bob and Norma Gross, and Don and Barbara Miller—cherishing their time together in places like Hawaii and beyond. Just as meaningful were the traditions they built with their grandchildren: sleepovers, holidays, family dinners, and special yearly trips.

Carol was a devoted mother, known for her energy, leadership, and generosity. She was deeply involved in her children’s lives and the community. From Room Mother, Girl Scout and Cub Scout leader, PTA President at Pitts Elementary to President of the Ladies Auxiliary at Porter Hospital, Carol consistently stepped into roles that brought people together and made a difference.

As her children grew older, Carol returned to the workforce part-time, applying her talents at an accounting firm and later at Royal Insurance Company—always eager to stay sharp, busy, and connected.

Carol was a loving grandmother to Katie and Ellese (daughters of Debra and Chuck McKenney, married in 1986), and Lee and Lacey (children of Tom and Lynn married in 1983?). She and Ed remained a constant presence in their grandchildren’s lives, delighting in every milestone and memory.

In her later years, Carol and Ed moved to Sommeren Glen Residential Living Community in Centennial CO, where she made some of her dearest friends.

She remained vibrant, living independently, and engaged, active in the church, community events, and a beloved writing group where she reflected on and shared stories from her childhood and life.

Ed passed away in April (2019?) After a brief illness. Although she missed Ed terribly after their 63 years of marriage, Carol went on to grow and nurture her friendships at Sommerenglen and remain active up until her very last days.

Her family is deeply grateful to the incredible staff at Someren Glen and Porter Adventist for their attentive and compassionate care, especially in her final weeks.

Carol is survived by her daughter Debra McKenney, her son Tom Strickland, her four grandchildren—Katie, Ellese, Lee, and Lacey—and seven great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Porter Adventist Hospice in Carol’s honor.

Carol’s life was a beautiful legacy of service, laughter, and love. She will be missed beyond measure and remembered forever.