Sybil Strickland

Sybil “Nina” Strickland, born July 12, 1920, left this world a much better place. She died on Tuesday, April 29, 2014, of congestive heart failure. Always thoughtful and caring of others, she held many positions of leadership in the 78 years she lived in Abilene. Graduating from Abilene High in 1937, she earned a BA from Hardin Simmons University in 1940, and an MA in 1955. She spoke proudly of her involvement with the HSU Cowgirl organization. Teaching math was her forte at Mann Junior High between 1950-1972. She chaired the math department, sponsored the National Junior Honor Society for 18 years, and was president of Abilene Classroom Teachers Association in 1960. She taught Sunday School and Training Union classes at First Baptist Church of Abilene, was president of Baptist Women, and served on various church committees. Her civic involvement included Cub Scouts of America; United Way; Hendrick Hospital – volunteer; Fifty-Eight Study Club – president; Abilene Woman’s Club – president 1976-78; and served on the city’s “Planning Abilene’s Future” in 1977. Bridge was one of her favorite things to do, especially in her later years. Nothing pleased her more than lunch and an afternoon of bridge, both in Abilene and in Dallas. While at C. C. Young Center in Dallas, she was often playing both bridge and forty-two. Sybil was preceded in death by her mother and father, Bertha and Homer Schrimsher; her husband of 62 years, Dallas; and her son Phil. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter-in-law Carolyn; her two granddaughters Shannon and husband Merritt Holman, and Delaine and husband Daniel Mueller; and five great grandchildren, Savannah and Hayden Holman, and Mason, Dalton and Gavin Mueller; many cousins, nieces and nephews. The family wishes to thank the Hospice care staff and employees at C. C. Young Center who helped her remain in independent living until two weeks before her body would no longer respond to her will. As on earth, Sybil continues to be surrounded by the love of Christ, and by family and friends who have gone before her and who know her gracious and caring spirit. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, May 4, 2014, at 1:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Abilene in the sanctuary with Dr. Philip Christopher and Dr. Bill Bruster officiating, directed by The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road, Abilene. Donations may be made in her memory to the Texas Baptist World Hunger Offering at the Baptist General Convention of Texas, 333 N. Washington St., Dallas, TX 75246.