Gloria Strickland died peacefully surrounded by her family on November 11, 2023. Born in El Dorado, Arkansas on April 29, 1938, Gloria was the daughter of Robert and Mary Brewster. She is survived by her brother Robert Brewster (Ann) of Tifton, GA and sons Rex Strickland (Marta) of Mount Dora, FL, and Kristopher Strickland (Cecelia) of Leesburg, FL. She had six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Rex Strickland and great-grandson Lane Strickland.
A graduate of Waycross High School, she met and married Rex the following year and that marriage continued till his passing, 48 years later. Gloria was a very proud Military Wife, following Rex in his military career across the United States. They settled in Orlando in the late 60’s, following tours in Alaska and Maryland. She soon launched a new career as a Title and Escrow Officer. Her early work included handling the closings on much of the property that is now Walt Disney World.
Gloria’s career in Real Estate and working with attorneys lead to her opportunity to join the Legal Secretaries Association in Florida (FALS). She rose to the position of Chairman of FALS and later the Florida Representative to the National Legal Secretaries Association. Her latter career took her into Teaching where she remained until her retirement.
Gloria enjoyed the Florida Lifestyle. She and Rex were avid boaters and could be found most weekends enjoying the water. She also never lost her love of horses and all things Western. Much of her spare time revolved around watching re-runs of Gun Smoke, Bat Masterson, and The Virginian. She truly loved the horses. She also enjoyed playing cards, games, and crafts with her many friends at Grand Villa.
Gloria was a Loving Wife, Mother and loved being Nana.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:45AM on Saturday December 2nd, 2023, at Baldwin Brothers Tavares Funeral Home, located at 1350 E Burleigh Blvd, Tavares, FL 32778. Visitation is from 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.