Rylan Alex Strickland, born June 12, 2008, passed away on December 26, 2025, far too soon at the age of 17.  He was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Romuel Sr. and Regina Strickland. Rylan is lovingly survived by his parents, Romuel Jr. and Jamie Strickland, and his mom, Courtney Jones; grandpa, Jeffery Jones and grandma, Diane Goins; sisters, Lindsay Chavis, Ayla Strickland, and Ella Strickland; brothers, Andrew Strickland and Alton Lakota Chavis; brother-in-law, Nick Chavis, his cherished nieces and nephew; Becklynn, Lynleigh, and Huntley Chavis. He is also survived by his uncle, Greg Strickland (Trish); his aunts, Rose Hunt (Billy), Rhonda Dial (Rudy), Jackie Deese (Gene), Betty Dial, Anita Jacobs (Jimmy), Layla Jones, and Brittany Graham, along with many extended family members and friends who loved him deeply.

Rylan was a treasured son and grandson, a devoted brother, a proud uncle, a cherished cousin and nephew, and a loyal friend. He began as an energetic little boy and was becoming a strong young man, full of dreams, purpose, and promise. Family meant everything to Rylan, and he showed his love through laughter, joking, and being there when someone needed him. He was always on the heels of his daddy, ready to hunt or fish, and he forever tugged on his mama’s heartstrings. He adored his siblings, nieces, and nephew and was attentive and protective toward them.

A true outdoorsman at heart, Rylan loved the woods, the water, and the beauty of nature. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, with a special passion for deer hunting. Rylan was especially proud of his time in the woods, having brought home several bucks, and loved sharing hunting stories with others. He formed strong bonds with his many hunting buddies, who became brothers to him. Rylan also had a special love for animals, especially his hunting dogs, who were his constant companions and brought him great joy.

Rylan was an active and faithful member of Union Chapel Holiness Methodist Church Youth for Christ, where he participated in youth programs/events, projects, Vacation Bible School, and Christmas/Easter plays. His involvement reflected a heart that loved God and wanted to serve and be part of something greater than himself.

A senior at Purnell Swett High School, Rylan was known for his charm, good looks, and warm, easygoing spirit.  He had a way of making people laugh, and he was loved far more than he ever knew.

Though his life was cut short, the love he gave and the memories he created will never fade.  Rylan’s unforgettable smile—one that could light up a room will stay in our hearts. We take comfort in knowing that Rylan knew Jesus and was saved on October 10, 2017, and while our hearts are broken here on earth, we trust in God’s promises. Looking at the lyrics of Rylan’s favorite gospel Song, “God’s Grace,” it says:  “Lord, You brought me through the night, Lord, You kept me and You never left me, You stood by my side.”  For Rylan, it speaks to the truth that his life was held by God — not just at the end, but all the way through. It says that even when things were hard or unfair, God was with him, and God is still with him now.

Rylan now rests in His presence, whole, healed, and at peace. Rylan will always be remembered, always cherished, and forever missed by all who knew and loved him.

We know how the story ends—God has already won the victory, and His love will always overcome evil. Our greatest prayer is that all who loved Rylan will come to know Jesus.