Bernie L. Strickland

Bernie L. Strickland, 56, died Thursday, February 27, 2014 at an Abilene medical center. The son of Billie I. (Raughton) and Walter V. Strickland, he was born on November 17, 1957 in Abilene, Texas. After graduating in 1976 from Wylie High School, he attended both Cisco Junior College and McMurry University. Since 1984, Bernie had been a sales representative for Glazers Distributors, working with people all over the state. Being in sales, he was loved by all of the many customers with whom he met. He was always smiling and joking. Bernie was a member of Beltway Park Baptist Church. He was also an avid hunter and golfer. Bernie married Debra J. Smith on July 8, 1982 in Abilene. She preceded him in death on June 25, 2012. He was also preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his daughter, Courtney Young and husband Ryan of Abilene; granddaughter, Shyloh Young; and brother, Verlon Strickland and wife Jan of Abilene. Bernie was a wonderful husband and a loving father, grandfather and brother. He will be dearly missed by all. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 3, at The Hamil Family Funeral Home Chapel, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road in Abilene, with Rev. Larry Baird and Mike Raughton officiating. Burial will follow in Elmwood Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, March 2 at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Phil Raughton, Allen Raughton, Cory Tucker, Lanny Tucker and Tony Bates. Memorials may be made to Hendrick Hospice Care, 1682 Hickory St., Abilene, TX 79601, or to the donor’s favorite charity.