Ed Strickland

Ed Strickland passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025, at Lakeland Regional Hospital. He was born on September 23, 1942, in Cairo, Georgia, and moved to Frostproof from Tallahassee in 1962, where he dedicated much of his life to his work, family, and community.

Ed was a man of many talents and passions, most notably as a Citrus Grove Owner and a seasoned truck driver who logged over three million miles in his classic 1994 Peterbilt model 379. His commitment to his profession and his impressive driving skills earned him respect and admiration within the trucking community.

After receiving his Bachelor's in Sacred Music from FSU, Ed served for over 34 years as the Music Director for the First Baptist Church of Frostproof, where he shared his love for music and enriched the spiritual lives of many. He recorded three solo gospel albums, toured internationally and was baptized in the river Jordan during one of his stops in Israel. His profound impact on the church community, and city in general, will not be forgotten and in 2018 the Mayor of Frostproof proclaimed May as Edward Strickland Month.

With his background in citrus, farming and trucking, Ed enjoyed operating machinery of all types and sizes. It was clear from an early age that he was talented in this arena by being a two-time winner of the FFA tractor driving championship during his high school years and he also drove a school bus while attending Florida State.

Ed was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce Strickland, and his parents, Horace and Wilma Strickland-Jones. He leaves behind a loving family that includes his daughter, Kristie L. Strickland-Koger and husband Jeff of Monticello; his son, Shannon Strickland of Frostproof; his brother, Pleas Strickland of Tallahassee; his granddaughter, Alexis Shelton and husband Michael; his great-grandson, Marshall Shelton; as well as his niece, Allison Chase and nephew, Tim Strickland.

Ed Strickland's legacy will be cherished by all who knew him. His unwavering spirit, undeniable love for family, and dedication to his community have left a lasting imprint, and he will be deeply missed.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, January 31, 2026 at First Baptist Church of Frostproof with Rev. Darrol Hood, Rev. Adam Greenway, Rev. Heath Woolman, and Rev. Lonnie Norris officiating.