Norma Tippins Strickland

LILBURN/CLAXTON: Norma Tippins Strickland, 79, passed away Sunday, May 24, 2026. Norma was a devoted wife, loving mother, lifelong learner, and treasured friend whose kindness and creativity touched everyone who knew her. Born and raised in Claxton, Georgia, Norma graduated from Claxton High School and continued her education at Georgia Southern University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education. She carried her love of learning throughout her life and inspired countless others through her dedication and warmth. Norma shared 57 years of marriage with her husband, Jimmy.

Together, they built a life centered on family and friendship. She was a proud and devoted mother to her sons, Jay and Matt, who were the center of her world. An avid lifelong bridge player, Norma cherished the friendships and fellowship the game brought her over the years. She was also deeply talented in arts and crafts, finding joy and fulfillment in making beautiful things. Whether through painting, calligraphy, or other creative pursuits, she shared her artistic gifts generously with family and friends. Norma will be remembered for her intelligence, creativity, gentle spirit, and unwavering love for those around her.

Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished and the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

She is preceded in death by her parents B. G. and Joy Tippins, two sisters, Cathy Haire and Nan Peoples.

SURVIVORS: husband, Jimmy Strickland of Lilburn, Ga.; two sons, Jay Strickland of Blacksburg, VA. and Matt (Crystal) Strickland of Grayson, Ga.; sister, Glenda (John) Threet of Claxton, Ga.; brother, Bascom (Susan) Tippins of Dawsonville, Ga.; one granddaughter, Morgan Eisner; and many nieces and nephews.

VISITATION: Friday, May 29, 2026, 10:00 A.M. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home, Claxton, Ga.

FUNERAL: Friday, May 29, 2026, 11:00 A.M. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home Chapel, Claxton, Ga.

BURIAL: Brewton Cemetery, Claxton, Georgia

REMEMBRANCES: Flowers send to NeSmith Funeral Home, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Brewton Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 978, Claxton, Ga., 30417.

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

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Since 1917

(912) 739-3338

www.nesmithfuneralhome.com