OBITUARY
Matthew Brady Strickland
May 18, 1971 – November 14, 2013
Coming in Hot
“Coming in Hot” was a favorite saying for Matthew. He would say it all the time when riding up to a group of his brothers. However, this wasn’t just a saying, this was an attitude that Matthew applied to his everyday life. It means that he gave his all to what was important to him – his wife – his kids – his work – and his brotherhood. If Matthew loved you, he loved you with all of his heart, not just little love, but big love. Matthew was born on May 18, 1971 in Tupelo, Mississippi and passed away on November 14, 2013 in Wylie, Texas. He is survived by: his wife, Tiffany Strickland – his children, Alexis Cummings, Treyson Strickland, and Makenna Strickland - his parents, Carolyn Mooney, James Markham, and Jill Markham – and his siblings, Mike Strickland and James Markham. Matthew attended Bridgewater State College and Northeastern University which prepared him for a career in information technology and network security at employers such as Stream International, Microsoft, and McAfee. In the spirit of “coming in hot”, Matthew excelled at all positions he held. A testimony to Matthew’s drive comes from a previous coworker at McAfee, “Matthew is a ‘scary-smart’ guy, and an extremely talented manager. Working with him and his teams over the years has inspired me, because of the level of service and commitment that they provide to their customers. Matthew attacks his day and the tasks at hand, and expects everyone working with him to dive in with all their skill and energy.” Matthew’s career skills have been recognized by many and he has been instrumental in the development of many. He simply made anyone that he was around, better at what they did. His energy was contagious. Matthew attacked many passions, but his first as a working adult was freemasonry – and guess what – he “came in hot!” Matthew joined the Garland Lodge and quickly engaged and eventually became the Lodge’s Worshipful Master. He also joined another body of freemasonry known as the Scottish Rite. It was here that Matthew excelled and eventually became the youngest 33rd degree mason at that time. This honor is not given lightly. Only through selfless commitment over a long period of time does this opportunity arise. Matthew didn’t love little, he loved big – and he loved the search for more light in freemasonry. Along with Matthew’s insatiable desire for more light, came a desire for a different dimension of brotherhood – the type of brotherhood that is up close and personal – a motorcycle club. Matthew sought out the Dirty Bastards Motorcycle Club in McKinney, Texas in hopes of one day becoming a patch member. This too must be earned though commitment of time, effort, and respect; something that was right up his alley. Once again, Matthew was “coming in hot.” After many selfless months, Matthew made patch and became Dirty Bastard Razor. This was a happy day for all of them as they were finally able to call this man their brother. Then there’s the girl that melted Matthew’s heart and took his breath. It wasn’t long after Matthew met Tiffany that he knew this was the girl for him forever. After a passionate courtship and their forming of a best friendship, Matthew and Tiffany blended their families together. Their union brought them and their children together – filling gaps that existed, with love and happiness. The type of husband Matthew was is best described by Tiffany’s dad, James Markham. He has said that Tiffany never had to open the passenger door of their truck, because he always treated her like a princess. This wasn’t just during their courtship phase – this was until the day he passed. Mr. Markham loves to tell people, “You know, she didn’t just meet the man of her dreams, I met the man of my dreams for my daughter!” Matthew lived each day to its fullest. He touched many lives and even if your time knowing him was short, knowing him for a little while trumps never knowing him at all. Matthew, you are missed very much. There is no doubt that you’ve found some worthy endeavor to engage in, while spending time with the Great Architect of the Universe, and you have decided once again, that it’s time to “come in hot.” Visitation for Matthew will be Tuesda,y November 19th from 6 until 9 PM at the Ted Dickey Funeral Home. Memorial Services will be held the following evening, Wednesday, November 20th at 6:00 PM. Those wishing to make a memorial to Matthew may do so at Bikers Against Road Rage, 490 B North Kentucky Street, McKinney, TX 75069 or to the Scottish Rite Hospital in Dallas, Texas.
Services
- Visitation Tuesday, November 19, 2013
- Funeral Service Wednesday, November 20, 2013
REMEMBERING
Matthew Brady Strickland
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RECEIVE UPDATESBrent and trashley bledsoe
July 25, 2014
We miss and love you everyday Matthew <3 never forget xoxoxoxo
Ronny Childers
December 18, 2013
Matthew was a great friend back in high school. Although I haven't seen or talked to him in years , my prayers are with his family and brothers. God bless you all.
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Dena & Brian Allen
November 21, 2013
Matthew,, May God watch over your family and friends as they mourn over your loss. We will pray that God watches over your kids as they grow into adults. We will pray that the kids always remember your loving caring ways. We always considered you a friend and neighbor. You were definitely take way to soon. May God watch over you now.
November 21, 2013
I met matthew up here in massachusettes when he joined the cable tv company I was with in 1990. he was only here until 1992 when he decided to return to tx. while here, he and I became best friends fast. he only had one speed, fast. we loved karate, he broke 2 of my ribs. he nearly killed both of us playing chicken with the end of a snowy pier, I still have the news paper pic. ( driving us off the edge )...nevertheless, I still love him. he always said, " it's so amazing someone from the south can visit the north and become so close with a complete stranger " ( me ) we spoke just 4 wks back on the phone and were planning to come down so I could show my wife texas and stay with matt...well, big country james has made me feel welcome, and we are still going to visit " you all " and trade matt / razor stories, I have alot of them. I wish everyone strength at tonites service, and I will be having a jack daniels tonite looking at my pics of matt and I and thinking of all of you. r.i.p. matthew my friend...ray bearce halifax massachusettes. clisterray@yahoo.com
Noel Coward Jr.
November 21, 2013
“He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again.” - Hamlet
Glad to meet, Sorry to part!
Maggie Wright
November 20, 2013
I never got the chance to meet Matthew, but I feel as if I knew him through Tiffany, his wife. I saw snippets of Tiffany and Matthew's life together through her stories and through Facebook. It was easy to see how much Matthew loved and cherished Tiffany and how much she loved and adored him. I am very sorry that I didn't get to know Matthew personally. Tiffany, it is good to know that you have such a loving support network of family and friends to lean on. You and your family are constantly on my mind and I pray for peace for you all.
Nina Smith
November 20, 2013
Matthew, You were a very special guy and everyone at McAfee is going to miss you. You were a good friend to me and I'll never forget you. There's not a lot of poeple out there as genunie as yourself. I'm proud to have known you and lucky to have crossed paths with you in this life.
My heart goes out to Matthew's family, to his children and to you, Tiffany. God bless you all and may your memories of Matthew bring you comfort during this time.
November 20, 2013
I met Matthew over a short period of time, and knew immediately, he was a great guy. I am happy to know he's watching over Tiffany and all 3 of his kids.
Robert McCutchan
November 20, 2013
It's been a few years since we worked together at McAfee but I always had good talks with you in the smoking area and Platinum Support. I regret that we were never able to go on a ride together but I look forward to that chance in the next life.
Pauline McReynolds
November 20, 2013
I taught Matthew in Valliant and introduced him to his first Mac. He would check in from time to time over the years, and then with fb I was able to see his devotion to his family and his passion for riding. A beautiful mind gone too soon.
May God bless and comfort his family.
November 19, 2013
Although I never met Matthew I have met his twins. I pray that he watches over them and stays with them all the days of their lives. I also pray that those that are left to mourn the loss will come together for the children & never forget what a great father he was in the short time he had in their lives.
"Swishbo"
November 19, 2013
To my Best Buddy Matthew. I love you and you will always have a special place in my heart and to those I meet when I share our stories with them. We had some great times and tough times, but you were always there for me.
Perry Barker
November 19, 2013
When at last your wery feet shall have come to the end of life's toilsome journey and from your nerveless grasp, and you have drop the working tools of life....you shall hear, " Well done thou good and faithful servant enter into the joy of thy Maker"!
Matthew, I was the first you Raised.....Thank You and God's speed my Brother!!!
Izaac & Nicole Perez
November 19, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Cindy Scholander
November 19, 2013
May God bless and hold Matthew's family in his arms...I truly enjoyed working with Matthew at Scottish Rite and will always cherish the memories in my heart...may God bless...
Sean Campbell
November 19, 2013
Rest in Paradise Matt!! The world has lost a genuine soul! I'm honored to have known you!
Jeff Kirk
November 19, 2013
It hurts so bad, to say goodbyes.....
Pain is felt, with tear filled eyes.......
The news we dread, want not and fear.......
Suddenly reality, becomes crystal clear............
Knowing the risk, and chances we take.....
We start up our motors, the trip we do take.....
With freedom, and passion, the wind in your hair.............
You may not have made it, but I'll meet you there...........
I'm not sure when, but I'll see you my friend............
Making sure that your journey, never will end........
Ridding beside you, our spirits let free......
All of us bikers, together we'll be.
Tiffany Strickland
November 19, 2013
Baby, I miss you every second of the day. You are always on my mind and in my heart. I hear your voice and see your face and it is some kind of comfort. You were my best friend, best secret keeper, my partner in crime, my ice cream at midnight buddy, my junk food Taco Bell buddy, our children's daddy and my husband. As I always told you I would even be proud to wear a ring from a gum ball machine but you got me one that was more than your first Harley... Now coming from you that is crazy love. I don't know that I will ever be able to take it off. We talked about getting our names tattooed on each other and that is my plan. I'm going to carry you with me forever. I know you'll always be by my side. You have gave me so much strength and courage, I wouldn't be who I've become with out you. You are the biggest blessing in my life. Thank you, just thank you. I love you forever and I do mean forever. I'll always remember and hear your voice. I'll always remember your smell and the way you hugged and kissed me. Thank you for making me feel like a princess. I miss you and love you so much. I know you'll stay by me and our kids and I appreciate that. I appreciate that you are still taking care of all us even now. Baby, just know you were and are still my world and it will never be the same. Again, I love you.
Lurch II
November 19, 2013
My Condolences to his Brothers family and friends
__________
Shelby Day
November 19, 2013
There are no words, Tiffany. Just know you are loved and prayed for daily.
Eric Klein
November 18, 2013
You will be missed Matthew and you were fun and professional to work with, best of both worlds. My thoughts to your family and friends.
jill markham
November 18, 2013
My family was so fortunate to have had you in our lives. My heart is heavy. We will miss you. Love you
DB Goose
November 18, 2013
I miss you bro! I'm sure you and Rico are already partying up there.
November 18, 2013
Matthew, I will miss your sweet smile and bear hugs each time you and Tiffany was with me. I loved you the day Tiffany introduced you to me and was always glad to call you my grandson. Missing you, Grandma Bj
Sachse, (Dallas) TX
Edward Gilbert
November 18, 2013
Peace and love Matt. You are a special dude in a special place. I could always rely on you for sound advice and much needed wit. You will be missed...
Michelle Wright
November 18, 2013
Prayers and love to Matthews family and friends.
Derek
November 18, 2013
See you on the other side.
Valerie Burrows
November 18, 2013
You were a dear friend and very loved. You were always there for me with great advice and support. You are dearly missed my friend.
Karen Johnson
November 18, 2013
I never had the honor of meeting Matthew, but feel like I knew him from the way Tiffany radiated love every time she talked about him. After reading his obituary, I see that he is EXACTLY the man that I thought he was.
RIP and blessings to his family.
The Johnson Girls-Karen, Haley and McKenna
DB Zombie
November 18, 2013
Love you brother!
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IN THE CARE OF