Ms. Rosemarie Strickland passed away at the age of 83 years old on August 25th, 2021, peacefully at the home of her daughter in Huntsville, AL, as was her wish. She was born in Berlin, Germany and was a strong, exceptionally outspoken lady who always knew her own mind and was confident in her actions. She was a military spouse and mother to two daughters, Jeannette Swearingen and Jacqueline Rhees, grandmother to seven grandchildren, and great-grandmother to four great-grandchildren. She dedicated her life to her daughters, and to the life she built in Huntsville, AL after moving for over a decade with her ex-husband, David Strickland, to various Army installations. She will be remembered by the many friends made at the Redstone Arsenal Saddle Activity, the Redstone Arsenal Bingo Club, and by her lifelong friend Helga Akins and family.
Known by many as Rosie, she was a stylish lady who, in her younger years, wore her long black hair in a French Twist and drove her 1962 Mercedes 190SL to the stables every day. She was never without a book and loved going to the Huntsville library every week. Her life was hallmarked by the many dogs, horses, barn cats, and fostered wildlife she loved and cared for over the years. Many who love and knew her will remember her booming voice calling horses in from the pasture and her resonating voice that would include anyone within earshot in a conversation. A stubborn caretaker at heart, she never turned anyone away, was fiercely loyal to those she loved, and was forever bluntly honest.
She will be missed dearly. No service will be held; instead two charities have been selected for donations in her memory. Please donate to the Greater Huntsville Humane Society or Huntsville Public Library.
