Evelyn Christine Strickland

Evelyn Christine Strickland, Pianist and Organist, 91, passed away at Hospice Savannah on Wednesday, January 26, 2022.

She was born in LaGrange, GA on March 4, 1930 to the late Alice Ruby Kessler and Thaddeus Carson Kessler. She was in grade school when her family relocated to Savannah and she discovered what would be one of her life’s passions…music. At age 12 she began playing piano at Central Christian Church’s nursery and later became the church’s main pianist and organist. She always glorified God with her talent.

On June 28, 1948 Evelyn married Ralph Guy Strickland (deceased June 10, 2006). In 1962, when the church purchased its first organ, she taught herself to play and continued in her role there for decades. Evelyn’s love for music extended past the church walls. On many occasions she and her husband, Guy, would fill their home with dear friends and lively jam sessions. She had a fierce love for family, was a loving mother, doting grandmother and great grandmother. She enjoyed family gatherings, eating sweets, reading novels, watching anything Clint Eastwood and trips to Tallulah Falls with special friends.

Evelyn is survived by her son Thadious Strickland (Darlene), two daughters, Pamela Fabiano (Ralph), Connie Kesler (Eddie), one Granddaughter, Kathalyn Westcott (Thomas), one Great Granddaughter, Kristen Coviello (Nicholas) and one first cousin, Rev. Fred Brown (Ann).

Her fingers remembered songs and rhythms until her last breath and the music of her life continues in all of those who knew her.

Family will receive visitors from 5pm to 7pm on Wednesday, February 2, at Baker McCullough Funeral Home on Hodgson Memorial Dr. Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, February 3, at 11 am, officiated by Rev. Tim Brown, in the Chapel at Baker McCullough Funeral Home with burial to follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery.