We are sad to share the news of the sudden and unexpected loss of our mother, Brenda Joyce Verlander Strickland, 71, on July 21, 2023. She died peacefully in her home in Hampton, Virginia. Born as the youngest of three in Fox Hill to Hattie Norine and George Franklin Verlander, she graduated as a majorette from Kecoughtan High School.

She became a dedicated wife, mother, daughter, and sister who found time for playing softball while she worked full-time to raise her children, all the while maintaining her well known sense of humor. Her husband, Mickey Strickland, preceded her in death.  In her later years, she developed a passion for crocheting, adventured and traveled with family and friends, and hosted many family gatherings. Her generous nature was shown by her loving creations of crocheted baby hats and prayer shawls that she donated to local hospitals and her church.  A devoted daughter, she selflessly provided care and comfort to her mother in recent years.

Brenda is survived by her children, Dara Bradley and her husband Brian, James Hautz and his wife Leslie, Jeremy Hautz and his wife Lauren, and Jason Pully and his wife Kim; two sisters, Jeanette Schrum and Sandra Ballard; eleven grandchildren, Brittnie, Katelyn, Andruw (Savahna), Brianna (David), Nicolle, Jay, Amy, Mary, Carter, Julia and Parker; and four great grandchildren, PJ, Layla, MJ, and Zayden.

The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 AM, on Thursday, July 27, 2023 at Wallace Memorial United Methodist Church with a funeral service beginning at 11 AM. Interment will follow at Clark Cemetery. Friends are invited to return to Wallace to join the family for a reception following the interment.

Memorials may be made to Wallace Memorial UMC or a charity of your choice.