Jonnie Mae Flowers Kennedy (Strickland), 71, of Clayton, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at her home on Sunday, December 28, 2025. She was born to the late Johnny Elton and Elma Flowers.
Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Michael Strickland; sister, Mary Alice Batten (Wilbur); sister-in-law, Debbie Hogg (David); niece, Regina Shoemaker (John); nephews, Jason Flowers Batten and Michael Batten; great-nieces, Hannah Shoemaker and Stella Mae Batten; great-nephew, Henry Batten; step-daughter, Nicole Strickland; step-granddaughters, Kashlynn Banks and Bella Banks and step-grandson, Chevy Banks.
Jonnie retired after working as a special education teacher at Old Cleveland School for forty-two years, and then an additional seven years training educators in Johnston County on special education. Jonnie loved the beach and collecting shells. She enjoyed making crafts and sewing. Jonnie dearly loved animals and the simple things in life. She will be missed tremendously by everyone who knew and loved her.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 2:00pm to 4:00pm at Dr. Watson Inn at Flowers Plantation, 500 NW Flowers Parkway, Clayton, NC 27527.
