Steve Strickland died surrounded by his loved ones on June 7 at Ogeechee Area Hospice in Statesboro. Steve is survived by his wife of 30 years, Donna, and their son Mitchell; his brother Tim (Julia) Strickland of Pembroke; and a special aunt, Gail Bowers, his father’s last living sister. He also leaves behind several cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Joseph and Emma Barron of Portsmouth, NH, LeeMore and Helen Strickland of Pembroke, GA, and his parents Lee and Mary Jo Strickland of Savannah, GA.

Steve grew up on Whitemarsh Island in the Gray’s Creek subdivision. He attended Bible Baptist from 1st through 12th grade, graduating in 1988. He earned Double Eagle status at Georgia Southern University, obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering in 1993 and a Master’s degree in Industrial Technology/Management in 2003.

Throughout his career, Steve worked for several outstanding companies, most notably Gulfstream Aerospace, Rayonier Paper Products, and CZM Drilling, where he made significant contributions. He was passionate about safety and ergonomics, supporting the people he worked with, and fostering strong team environments. Steve’s dedication earned him numerous awards and recognition for his service and leadership.

Steve enjoyed deer hunting, especially at Greasy Corner Hunting Club, where he treasured time spent with his father, brother, and friends. He was an avid sports fan, cheering for the GSU Eagles, UGA Bulldogs, and the Atlanta Braves and Falcons. For several years, he never missed a GSU football game, traveling as far as Oregon to support his team. Steve loved traveling—exploring new places but also cherishing visits to family-favorite destinations, including Portsmouth, NH, and Wilburton, PA. He particularly enjoyed weekend getaways, extended check-out hours, and sharing a good meal. Steve had the unique ability to make a stranger his friend. He nurtured and valued friendships from each phase of his life: childhood, high school, college, work, the ball fields, and GSU sports.

During the last 18 months of his life, Steve faced stage IV colorectal cancer with courage, determination, and anger. He asked question anbout his diagnosi including, “What do I tell everyone?” He chose to use his experience to encourage others to get their scheduled colonoscopy and follow up on any new symptoms. Steve’s fight was supported by dedicated healthcare professionals who cared for him with compassion and expertise, helping him maintain dignity and comfort through his treatments.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 11, 2026 from 11:00 - 12:30 pm at Flanders Powell Funeral Home. 

Funeral service will follow at 12:30 pm in the Flanders Powell Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Jeremy Ikner officiating. 

Burial will be held at Ash Branch Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Steve Strickland’s Memorial Fund to support Mitchell’s wducation, GSU Baseball, or to colon cancer research, honoring Steve’s spirit and legacy.