In Loving Memory of Bennie (Benice) Bowman Strickland
Bennie (Benice) Bowman Strickland, 89 years old, a beloved Wife, Mother, and Grandmother peacefully passed away on December 10, 2023. She was surrounded by the love of her family at the time of her passing.
Born in Carroll County, Virginia, to her parents Verna and V.V.  Bowman, Bennie was predeceased by her Mother and Father, as well as her two brothers, James C. (Jack) Bowman and Robert (Bob) Bowman, and two sisters, Margaret (Peg) Brady and Ethel Martin.
Survived by her devoted husband of 73 years, Rod (Roger) Strickland, Bennie leaves behind a legacy of love through her four daughters and their husbands: Sue Richardson (Stuart); Mary Strickland, M.D.  (Bill Forbes); Kim Kronsbein (John); and Brenda Rosecrans (Alex).
Bennie's heart expanded with joy through the presence of her 11 grandchildren, each holding a unique place in her heart: Brandon Richardson, India Richardson, Patrick Richardson (Jamie), Nathan Forbes, Jessica Forbes, Ben Forbes, Andy Kronsbein (Amanda), Kari Kronsbein (Clay Hunt), Austin Rosecrans (Kelsey), Taylor Rosecrans (Erin), and Brad Rosecrans (Jessica).
Survived also by 11 great-grandchildren, Bennie's love extended to the newest generation of her family, bringing joy and warmth to their lives.
An avid gardener, Bennie's green thumb was legendary. Her love for tending to her garden mirrored her nurturing spirit, bringing beauty and vibrancy to the lives of those fortunate enough to witness it.
She was known for her wonderful cooking talents  especially making the most mouth-watering homemade biscuits, a talent that brought joy and comfort to family and friends alike. Her kitchen was not only a place of delicious meals but also a hub of love and togetherness.
Bennie's happiest moments were spent surrounded by the laughter and love of her family and friends as well as travels with her husband. These moments, enriched by her warm presence, created cherished memories that will endure for generations.
The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in celebrating Bennie's life on December 30th at Vaughan-Guynn-McGrady Chapel in Hillsville Virginia. A visitation will be held from 10 am until 11:45 , a memorial service will follow at noon, and a reception will immediately follow.
The family would like to thank the wonderful caregivers at The Village of Beth Sholom for providing excellent care and love in the last years of Bennie's life.
As we remember Bennie, let us celebrate the vibrant life she lived, the love she shared, and the beauty she cultivated. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to SouthEastern Virginia Alzheimer's Association  Southeastern Virginia Chapter (alz.org) 6350 Center Drive, Suite 102 Norfolk, VA 23502  in Bennie's honor.
May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love that will forever bloom in the hearts of those who cherished her and the memories that will live on in those she left behind.