Jimmy Strickland, 86, of Grants, New Mexico, passed away peacefully at his home on June 29, 2026. He was born on July 11, 1939, in Zoe, Oklahoma, to Herbert Bernie Strickland and Geraldine Skelton Strickland.

Jimmy spent his early years in Howe and Poteau, Oklahoma. At the age of 13, his family relocated to Carlsbad, New Mexico, where he attended school and graduated in 1957. Shortly after graduation, Jimmy moved to Grants, New Mexico, seeking employment in the uranium industry. He began his career with Homestake Mining Company, where he dedicated 26½ years of service, retiring as a mechanic foreman.

Jimmy had a lifelong passion for farming and ranching. He also loved aviation and was proud to hold his pilot's license. In his later years, he discovered a new passion—building trailers in his workshop. What began as a one-man hobby soon became a cherished partnership with his son-in-law, Paul. With each trailer they built, Jimmy would smile and say, "Pablo, I think this will be my last one," or "Pablo, you might have to finish this one." Yet, before long, he was eager to begin another project. His determination and love for craftsmanship continued until the age of 86.

Jimmy was a man known for his generous heart, strong work ethic, and willingness to help anyone in need. He touched the lives of many through his kindness, friendship, and quiet acts of service. His family will forever cherish the memories they made with him, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Amelia Esparza Medina and family; his daughter, Tammy Mandagaran and husband, Paul; his son, JimEd Strickland and family; his grandchildren, Shandara Mandagaran, Cara Strickland, and JE Strickland; and his great-grandchildren, Isaac Jaramillo and Ryleigh Jo Jaramillo. He also leaves behind many beloved nephews, nieces, cousins, and extended family members—too many to name but never forgotten.

He was preceded in death by his father, Herbert Bernie Strickland; his mother, Geraldine Skelton Strickland; his brother, Kenneth Edward Strickland; and his sister, Dorothy Dean Andes.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Jimmy's special friends and neighbors who faithfully checked on him, shared visits, brought treats, and brightened his days: Bernie Martinez, David Chapman, Rory Butterfield, and Bob and Nelcine Roland. Your kindness and friendship meant more to Jimmy than words can express. The family also wishes to recognize his longtime friends, Denny Martin and Ron Williams, whose years of friendship were deeply valued.

Jimmy leaves behind a legacy of hard work, integrity, generosity, and unconditional love for his family and friends. He lived a full and meaningful life, always ready to lend a helping hand and never afraid of hard work. He will be greatly missed but lovingly remembered by all whose lives he touched.

Please join the family at Grants Memorial Park Cemetery on July 11, 2026, at 11:00am to say our final good bye's and a peaceful lay to rest, as it would have been his 87th birthday!