Obituary
Thomas Augustus Strickland III (Gus), age 45, of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, passed away September 16, 2022.
Gus was born December 15, 1976 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to his beautiful parents Mary Ann and Thomas Strickland Jr.
Gus’ life was full of amazing people, tremendous experiences, and very strong faith. He earned his Marine Mechanics Degree from Florida Keys Community College and followed in his father’s footsteps in becoming an electrician. He was an entrepreneur of Strickland Electric in Edgewater, Florida, and continued his career as a devoted electrician to The City of Daytona Beach for over 13 years.
Gus loved being outdoors and his passion was saltwater fishing, particularly Chokoloskee and the Keys. He also loved hunting hogs with his friends and beating his mom and wife in Jeopardy. Gus’ belly laugh was contagious to everyone and just his smile meant he was a friend forever. He was genuine, honest, kind, gentle, loving, and gave the firmest handshakes and strongest bear hugs.
Gus was loved by and will be missed by so many. He is survived by his loving wife and soulmate, Jody Strickland of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, mother Mary Ann Strickland and father Thomas Strickland Jr. of Lantana, Florida, sister Katie McKinley (Paul) of Tampa, Florida, half-sister Tanya Strickland (Nichole) of New Market, Tennessee, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Gus is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Jay and Ruth Kirby, and paternal grandparents, Thomas and Emma Strickland. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Childrens’ Research Hospital.
Gus, I can hear your laugh right now. From piña coladas at at dawn, fishing til dusk or later (tarpon!) to late night poker games! We all laughed til we cried! When you married one of my best friends, life just got even better! I knew she had a great man to watch over her and protect her, and I know you will continue to watch over her and be with her for years to come. Thank you for the many memories! Love and miss you, my sweet friend!
Gus an Ava
Best friends
Carmen Ferrara