Betty “Melvalene” Strickland

Betty “Melvalene” Strickland, 85, of the Murraytown Community, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior on April 18, 2020, surrounded by her family. She was born in Nash County, on June 28, 1934, to the late Melvin and Reba Brantley Cone. She was proceeded in death by her husband of 62 years, Willard Earl Strickland. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

She worked and retired with 42 years of service as an administrative assistant in the Computing Center of her beloved North Carolina State University and was known to her colleagues as the “Country Girl.” She was a long time faithful member and supporter of Union Hope Baptist Church. She served many years as the church clerk, choir director, and dedicated her love of Christmas and crafts with others through church fellowship.

She was a beautiful soul, who loved her family and community dearly and was always sure to tell others she loved them even in her final days. She expressed her creative and artistic talents for many years by writing beautiful heartfelt poetry and designing personalized quilt squares for her mother to sew. Many family members were gifted poems and handmade quilts for special occasions to treasure. Melvalene had a great love for animals, especially her beloved George and Casey. She loved the NC State Wolfpack and enjoyed attending season basketball and football games for many years with her husband and grandchildren.

Melvalene is survived by her loving and dedicated daughter, Donna Strickland Bissette (David Brewer); granddaughter, Kristen Bissette Webb (Jimmy); grandson, Matthew Bissette (Lisa); great grandchildren: Eden and Brantley Webb and Lawsen and Weslyn Bissette.

The family extends their sincere appreciation to caregivers: Inez, Gale, Renee, Lois, Linda, Carolyn, Roxana, and Ella for the loving and professional care provided during her declining health. A private memorial service will be held April 21, 2020, at 1:00pm at Union Hope Baptist Church. A graveside service will immediately follow. Flowers accepted or memorials may be made to Union Hope Baptist Church, 12717 NC-97 Zebulon, NC 27597 or to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Her service will be available online 5 pm, Tuesday, www.facebook/stricklandfuneral.  Arrangements are with Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, 211 W. Third St., Wendell.  Full obituary at www.stricklandfumeral.com