John Watson Strickland

John Watson Strickland, known to those who loved him as Johnny, was a man whose steady presence, generous heart, and quiet strength left an enduring mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

 At 71, Johnny, of Middlesex passed away peacefully on September 5, 2026 surrounded by love—the same love he had given so freely throughout his life. Johnny’s life was defined by devotion, hard work, and an appreciation for the simple joys that make life meaningful. He was someone others could always count on: a skilled mechanic with capable hands, a thoughtful friend, a loving husband and father, a devoted grandfather and great-grandfather. Whether he was helping someone solve a problem, sharing a laugh, playing his guitar, or gathering loved ones around a campfire, Johnny had a way of making everyone feel welcome, cared for, and at home.

For many years, Johnny worked at his mechanic’s shop, where he was respected for his knowledge, dedication, and willingness to help others. He took great pride in repairing what was broken and finding solutions to difficult problems. Through his steady hands, generous spirit, and commitment to his work, he made a lasting impression on his customers, family, and friends. Family was at the heart of Johnny’s life. He cherished his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brothers, family and friends, and he treasured the time he spent with those he loved. Johnny found joy in the simple pleasures that made life special. He loved playing his guitar, riding dirt bikes, and camping at the lake. Some of his happiest memories were made outdoors, gathered around a campfire, enjoying the lake, music, laughter, and the company of those closest to him. These moments will remain treasured memories for his family and friends.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Tanya; his children, Kimberly and her husband, Steve Stancill, Chad Strickland and his wife, Judith; his stepson, Jason Lewis and Fiancée Christina; his grandchildren, Parker and Annie Lewis, Fox Lewis and Kristine, Trevor Yarbrough and Fiancée Rae; Clay Strickland and two great-granddaughters; his brothers, Donald Strickland and his wife, Kathy, Roger Strickland and his wife, Jennifer; along with many other family members and friends who loved him dearly.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Bart and Barbara Strickland and his first wife, Rhonda Kay Strickland, the loving mother of Kim and Chad. Johnny’s life touched many, and his legacy will live on through the love he gave, the lessons he shared, the work he took pride in, the music he played, and the memories he created. Those who knew him will carry him in their hearts—in the sound of a guitar, the roar of a dirt bike, the familiar hum of a shop, evenings around a campfire, quiet moments at the lake, and all the places where his memory remains close. He was loved deeply.

He will be missed beyond words. And he will never be forgotten. So go rest, my love. You don’t have to fight anymore. You don’t have to hurt anymore. Just know that you were loved all the way to the end. Tanya

A celebration of Johnny’s life will be held at a later date, according to his wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cardiac Department at Duke Health.