Sandra Strickland

Sandra D. Strickland, age 83, passed away peacefully, surrounded by deep love and gratitude, on Friday, July 18, 2025.
Born just days after Christmas and two weeks after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Sandra came into the world during a time of great turmoil, but she refused to let the world’s chaos define her. Strong, determined, and endlessly giving, she built a life that lifted everyone around her.
To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she was simply Nanny, a name spoken with warmth and reverence. She helped raise two siblings, five children, and one grandchild, and guided her great-grandchild’s path forward. She was a rock, a safe place, and a tireless giver.
Sandra graduated from O’Keefe High School in Atlanta, GA, and went on to serve her community with courage and commitment. She retired from the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Department as a Sheriff’s Deputy after more than 20 years of dedicated service, paving the way for other women as the department’s first female patrol officer.
Her life was defined by service, generosity, and a fierce love for people. If you needed a chance, she gave it. If you needed a meal, she cooked it. If you needed a friend, she showed up. Her quick wit, sharp humor, and honest questions reminded us all that good trouble is worth making when it means standing up for what’s right.
She loved to dance, anytime, anywhere, and never said no to a good cup of strong black coffee. Her laughter filled kitchens, living rooms, and porches, weaving memories that will live on in every story told at family gatherings.
Sandra is survived by her sister, Nancy; her five children, Brenda, Linda, Bo, Leslie, and Jessica; nine grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren who brought her endless joy and pride. She is preceded in death by her husband, Stan Strickland; her sister, Theresa Scimeca; her son, Steven J. Herron; and her grandson, T. Jeremy Seay.
As she wished, there will be no formal services. Instead, the family invites you to honor Sandra’s legacy by opening your heart and your table; give a hand up, share a meal, and make room for everyone.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice in her name. May we each carry forward her courage, her compassion, and her boundless love. She showed us how to give — now may we give, too.