Barbara Strickland

Barbara Strickland was born on June 17, 1930, in San Diego, California, and went home to be with the Lord on January 22, 2026.

Barbara was a multi-talented woman with a deep zeal for life and learning. She found joy in gardening, playing classical piano, painting, walking her neighborhood while greeting friends and strangers alike, and traveling to New England. Above all, she held a lifelong fascination and love for early American history, especially the Shaker period, which influenced much of her art, home, and creative pursuits.

In September 1950, Barbara married Elbert Strickland. Together they raised two sons, Robert and Gary. Once her sons completed their schooling, Barbara began what would become a rich and varied professional journey spanning decades.

She started teaching piano in 1973, followed by twelve years running a craft business, sixteen years painting folk art portraits and country scenes, and six years designing English Garden wedding flowers. In a full-circle moment, she returned to teaching piano once again, continuing until the fall of 2025.

Alongside her faith and devotion to family, Barbara’s home was central to who she was. A reflection of her love for early American life and artistry, her home was featured in numerous publications, including Country Living, Early American Life, Country Home, San Diego Home/Garden Lifestyles, Early American Homes, and several others.

Barbara is survived by her sons, Robert Strickland and Gary Strickland, their spouses, six grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on February 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Barabbas Road Church, 7340 Miramar Road, San Diego.

Barbara’s life was one of faith, beauty, creativity. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered