Gary Reid Strickland

Gary Reid Strickland, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2026, in Richardson, Texas. Born on June 22, 1942, in Stamford, Texas, to Reid Strickland and Frances Inez Cook Strickland, Gary lived a life defined by faith, family, integrity, service, and a genuine desire to help others.

Gary graduated from Tascosa High School in 1960, where he was class president and a cheerleader. He earned a Bachelor of Architecture from Texas Tech University in 1965 and was a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity.

Gary built a distinguished career in construction, beginning alongside his father, a homebuilder, and later becoming co-owner of Reid & Gary Strickland Company. From 1965 to 2008, the company built some of Amarillo's most recognizable buildings. He later shared his knowledge and experience as an industry expert and consultant through Gary Strickland Company. A licensed architect who also held a Texas real estate license, Gary took great pride in his work, but he cared just as deeply about the people, relationships, and communities connected to it.

Throughout his life, Gary generously shared his time, talents, and leadership with organizations and causes that strengthened the communities he loved. His service included the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce Board; the Panhandle of Texas and Houston chapters of the Associated General Contractors of America; the City of Amarillo Construction Advisory and Appeals Committee; the Construction Management Association of America; Big Brothers Big Sisters; Dallas Christian College; United Way; and the Amarillo West Rotary Club, where he served as president and was recognized as a Fellow of Rotary International.

Most notably, Gary devoted 40 years of service to the Turn Center, serving as chairman of its board and supporting its mission. His lasting contribution was honored with a statue recognizing his service. He also served as a Big Brother and faithfully attended the same Bible study group for decades. Whether leading, mentoring, listening, or simply offering encouragement, Gary gave generously of himself and made a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Gary had been a member of Hillside Christian Church since 1975, and his faith was the foundation of his life. He was known throughout the community as a man of the highest principles and a devoted man of God. He sought to live each day by his faith and to lead others to know and follow the Lord. Those who knew him will remember his wisdom, generosity, steadfast character, and commitment to doing what was right.

Gary is survived by his children, Cory Strickland and his wife, Kellie, of Richardson, Texas, and Teri-Dawn Tiroff of Austin, Texas; his grandchildren, Paige Armstrong, Madeline Grubbs, Trace Tiroff, and Lexi Wilhelm; his great-grandchildren, Archie Armstrong and Jeffrey “Bennett” Grubbs; and his brother, Larry Strickland of Colleyville, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Reid Strickland and Frances Inez Cook Strickland, and his brother, Robert “Lane” Strickland.

More than his professional success or public accomplishments, Gary will be remembered for the way he lived: with strong faith, principled character, quiet generosity, and deep devotion to his family and community. He leaves a lasting legacy of love, leadership, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

SERVICE INFORMATION

Funeral Service

October 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors 2800 Paramount Boulevard, Amarillo, Texas 79109

Burial Service to Follow

Llano Cemetery 2900 South Hayes Street, Amarillo, Texas 79103

In lieu of flowers, the family recommends that memorial donations be made to the Turn Center. 

Donations may be made online at turncenter.org/donate.

In Loving Memory