Franklin McKinley Strickland was a beloved son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend. He was loved by everyone who met him, and he loved everyone he met. Franklin's love was an unconditional, special love. His main goal in life was to let everyone know he loved them and prayed for them. He loved to ride his three wheel bicycle, good food, his family, and his church. We prayed for years for Franklin to be able to walk, talk, run, and live like most do daily. On Wednesday night around 10:10 p.m., he took his first steps into Glory! We could all learn many lessons from Franklin's life and how he lived it. If you don't know Jesus, nothing would make Franklin any happier than for you to nail down your salvation today.

Franklin was predeceased by his mother, Geneva L. Strickland, his father, Elbert McKinley Strickland, and brothers, Nolan Strickland and Timothy Strickland.

He is survived by his sister, Margaret Blevins (Tony, Amanda, Anthony, Autrey, and Bohdi) of Ohio; a sister, Demaris Corzatt of New York; brother, Kester Strickland (Wanda, Jill, and Jonathin) of Nichols; his brother, Jack Strickland (Cynthia, Samuel, Maria, Norris, Nolan, and McKinley) of Nichols.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Sunday, November 3, 2024 in the sanctuary of Mullins-Marion Freewill Baptist Church. Funeral services will follow the visitation beginning at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend Jack Strickland and Reverend Thad Jacobs officiating. Interment will be at Riverside Cemetery.

If you would like to remember Franklin, the family suggests that donations be made in his memory to HERO Place GSF, 4473 Duford Road, Nichols, South Carolina 29581.

An online guestbook is available at www.mearesfh.com.

Meares Funeral Home is honored to serve the Strickland family.