James Russell Strickland

James Russell Strickland, 86, passed away Monday, Feb. 6, 2012 in Jonesboro. He was born Aug. 25, 1925, in Black Oak to the late William and Rosetta Strickland. He was a charter member of the Pi Kappa Alpha at Arkansas State University. Mr. Russell served his country proudly in the United States Marines in Iwo Jima during World War II and was a member of the Monette American Legion Post 136. He was a member of Monette United Methodist Church. Russell and his wife loved children and freely gave of their time and money to help children everywhere. They loved to travel and was an avid bird watcher and nature conservationist. He was a cotton farmer and landowner and a pioneer in the "no till" farming industry.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Melda Jean Young Strickland; a brother, Don Strickland; two sisters, Wilma Jean Meyers and Marcile Williams; numerous nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by six sisters, Evelyn Griffin, Eva Cullen, Alene Darr, Myrtle Barnes, Ruth Adams and Velma Blackwell; three brothers, Alvin Strickland, Jimmie Strickland and Glen Strickland.

A celebration of his life was held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, at the Gregg Funeral Home Chapel in Monette with Rev. Jerry Reed officiating. Interment will follow in Monette Memorial Cemetery.

Visitation was held Wednesday, Feb. 8, at the funeral home from noon until time of service.

The family requests lasting memorials to the Arkansas Children's Hospital, St. Jude's Children Hospital or Camp Quality, P.O. Box 9095 Jonesboro, AR 72403.

Personal condolences may be sent to the Strickland family at www.greggfunerals.com.