Ella Rea (Fields) Strickland

Ella Rea Fields Strickland, passed away on March 17, 2024, at Dahlia Gardens Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Aberdeen at the age of 87.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at Abundant Life Church in Rockingham, officiated by Pastor Joe Wilkes.  Burial will follow at Pine Crest Cemetery in Gibson.

Born on August 24, 1936, in Dale County, AL, she was the daughter of the late Herbert Wilson Fields and Minnie Bright Fields.  Ella's life was marked by her unwavering kindness, thoughtful nature, and a loving heart that left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Ella lived a life filled with joy, faith, and an enduring love for her family. A dedicated homemaker, Ella's home was not only a sanctuary for her family but also a testament to her strong will and amazing abilities to create warmth and comfort. Her life was a reflection of her values and the things she held dear. As an active member of the Abundant Life Church, Ella's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. Her commitment to her church family was evident in the hours she spent cooking for church events. Ella's ability to give good advice was legendary.

Ella's passion for life was evident in the things she loved. Her hands worked magic in the garden where her flowers bloomed as brightly as her spirit. She loved her grandchildren and she relished every opportunity to be involved in their lives.  The house that Ella made a home was her grand project, a labor of love that spoke volumes of her dedication to her family. She is survived by her daughters, Elaine Campbell (Jerry) of Rockingham and Donna Davis (John) of Hamlet; her grandchildren, Tony Campbell (Cindy) of Hamlet, Jeremy Campbell (Katie) of Rockingham, Amy Presley (Ronnie) of Hamlet, Chasity Kenerly (Adam) of Gold Hill, Kristy Smith (Brian) of Concord, Elisa Davis of Hamlet, and Anthony Davis of Rockingham; twenty-four great-grandchildren; and eight great-great-grandchildren.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Lonnie Strickland, and her daughter, Gloria Diane Sessoms. Bumgarner Family Funeral Service and Crematorium is assisting the Strickland family.

Online condolences can be made at www.bumgarnerfunerals.com.