Robert Rayford Strickland

Ray’s love for his country led him to serve in the U.S. Air Force for 21 years. During this time, he served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Betty Jean C. Strickland, son, Steve Strickland, daughter, Sharon Robinson and husband, Chuck, grandson, Davis Robinson, brother, David Strickland, sisters; Joan Lassiter, Barbara Pritchard, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and close family friends.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Monday, January 4, 2016 at 2:00 p.m., Mitchell Funeral Home Chapel, 7209 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will immediately follow at Raleigh Memorial Park, 7501 Glenwood Ave. with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, Ray has requested that donations be made in his honor to Wounded Warriors Project, www.woundedwarriorproject.org or to your local food bank to help the homeless. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.MitchellatRMP.com

Arrangements under the direction of Mitchell Funeral Home at Raleigh Memorial Park, Raleigh, NC.