James STRICKLAND Obituary

Originally of Fort Pierce, Florida, died suddenly in Christchurch, New Zealand (his home of 61 years) on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, aged 95. Jim was born in Florida, USA on June 12, 1930, to Charles and Florence Strickland. The oldest of 7 children, Jim didn't have the opportunity for much formal education. He helped out on his family's small farm and enlisted in the US Navy at age 18. He rose quickly through the ranks to Chief Petty Officer. Stationed in New Zealand with Operation Deep Freeze, he met a student nurse, Jackie. They married in 1965 and had 3 children (and a cat, a duck, 4 dogs, 2 guinea pigs, a rabbit, and many tropical fish, chickens, quail, and canaries). Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Alvin, Robert, Teddy, and Terry, and by his sister Betty. He is survived by his wife Jacqueline Strickland; children Lisa Wilson, James Strickland (USA), and Cindy Lammiman (Australia); and grandchildren Sheridan, Benjamin, Ethan, Levi, and Jesse. Also surviving is Jim's brother, Adrian Strickland. People wishing to honor Jim's life are asked to make donations to their local pet shelter in lieu of flowers/cards.