Ovidette "Vetta" Cobb Strickland

Ovidette “Vetta” Cobb Strickland, aged 80, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on April 8, 2026, surrounded by her devoted children in Jacksonville, Florida. Born on July 19, 1945, in Gainesville, Florida, Vetta was the beloved child of Mack Lee Cobb and Mercer Lee Cobb Replogle. She completed her education at Andrew Jackson High School, graduating in 1963, and carried with her throughout life an innate strength, kindness and unwavering faith.

On November 19, 1965, she embarked on a lifelong journey with her high school sweetheart and soulmate, Derryal Russell Strickland. Together they built a life grounded in love, faith and devotion sharing 58 beautiful years of marriage.

Vetta's professional journey led her to a loyal career with the Duval County School Board as a maintenance dispatcher for 38 years. She retired early to focus on what brought her the greatest joy—caring for her grandchildren, who lovingly knew her as “Nana.”

She found joy in God’s everyday blessings: nurturing her plants—especially her cacti—baking her famous pound cakes, enjoying true crime documentaries, crossword puzzles and spending cherished time with family and friends. She also had a special love for animals, particularly her poodles, and found comfort in their companionship.

Vetta lived her faith through her actions. She showed up -always-for the people she loved. If it mattered to them, it mattered to her. Whether it was a game, recital, ceremony, or any moment of need, she was there, offering encouragement, strength and unconditional love.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, her life was a reflection of Christ’s love in all she did. Her legacy lives on through her children, Laura Strickland Page (Gary), Denise Strickland Spinning (Jason), and Derryal Duane Strickland (Missy), and continues to flourish through her cherished grandchildren: Bailey Page Schneller (Mason), Emily Spinning, Brandon Page, and Addison Spinning, all of Jacksonville, Florida. She also leaves behind her dear sister, DeJean Replogle Morris (John), along with many beloved extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her adored husband, Derryal Russell Strickland; her parents, Mack Lee Cobb and Mercer Lee Cobb Replogle; and her treasured brother, David Lee Cobb.

Friends and family are invited to gather for visitation on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, at the Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Chapel located at 4801 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida, 32207. A celebration of her life and faith will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 10:00 am at the same location, followed by interment in the serene Oaklawn Cemetery.

Vetta’s life was a reflection of the quiet strength and steadfast faith described in Scripture: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear…” (Psalm 46:1–3). Through every season, she leaned on that truth and, in turn, became a source of comfort and strength for those around her.

Though she will be deeply missed, her family takes comfort in the promise of everlasting life and the assurance that they will one day be reunited with her again and that her love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Visitation will be held at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Legacy Lodge, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207, on April 24, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.  

A Funeral Service will take place at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Legacy Lodge, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207, on April 25, 2026, at 10:00 am.  

A Committal Service will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207, on April 25, 2026.  

A Reception will be held at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Legacy Lodge, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207, on April 25, 2026 after the committal.