WAYCROSS — Mr. William Mathew “Buddy'”Strickland, 73, of Waycross, died Saturday morning, October 11, 2025 at his home surrounded by family.

Strickland was born April 4, 1952, in Waycross to Loyd and Lois Strickland. He was a lifelong resident of Waycross. He att ended Ware County High School.

He was a construction worker building bridges in the Atlanta area and with the Ware County Road Department. After retiring from the construction business, Strickland worked as a carrier with the Waycross JournalHerald before suffering a stroke.

Strickland loved the outdoors going fishing, hunting, and camping with family and friends. He loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Strickland loved watching TV, especially old cowboy western shows.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and three brothers, Steve Strickland, Daniel Loyd Strickland and James Dock Strickland.

Strickland is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Linda Strickland of Waycross; a daughter, Tina (Danny) Whitley of Waycross; a son, Riley Strickland of Waycross; grandchildren, Shelby Card of Waycross, Haylee Card of Waycross, Alexis Strickland of Waycross and Preston Strickland of Waycross; two great grandchildren, Paisley Strickland and Rilee Weaver of Waycross; sisters, Linda Albritton of Offerman, Patricia (Wayne) Ammons of Waycross and Mary Norman of Waycross; brothers, Alan Strickland of Waycross and Edward (Becky) Strickland of Patterson; and numerous aunts, uncles, nephews and nieces.

A special Thank You to Satilla Hospice, especially Amy Tyre and all the caregivers over the past 14 years.

A memorial service was held Saturday, October 18, 2025 at Way of Holiness Church in Waycross.

Sympathy may be expressed online at www. milesodumfuneralhome. com.

Miles-Odum Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.