WILMINGTON — Cynthia Vann Strickland left this world suddenly and went to be with her Heavenly Father on January 19, 2025, at the age of 81 in Wilmington, NC. Born on May 18, 1943, in Charleston, SC to Clifton B. Vann, Jr. and Mary Vann, Cynthia’s journey through life was marked by passion, commitment, and an unyielding zest for life.
Cynthia was a beacon of inspiration, known for her honesty and kindness, wrapped in a demeanor that sparkled with life. Her favorite color, purple, often adorned her from head to toe, reflecting the vibrant spirit that characterized everything she did.
After graduating from New Hanover High School and attending Mars Hill College, Cynthia met the love of her life, Jerry Strickland, at Wrightsville Beach—a place that forever held a special place in her heart. It was here that she found joy in swimming and walking along the shore, embracing the beauty of nature.
Cynthia and Jerry’s early days in Wallace were marked by entrepreneurial vigor as she opened a Factory Outlet store. However, it was in real estate where Cynthia truly thrived, dedicating more than 40 years to the industry. Her remarkable career saw her inducted into the Cape Fear Realtors Hall of Fame, a testament to her unwavering dedication and success. Cynthia’s impact was felt throughout her community as she helped countless individuals and families find their dream homes, selling many properties two and three times over.
Beyond her professional achievements, Cynthia’s heart was devoted to helping others. She enriched lives through her involvement with the Pine Valley Bible Study Fellowship, where she served as a teacher, sharing wisdom and fellowship with her group each week. Her famous cream cheese pound cakes were a cherished delight at her restaurant, Salt Works on Wrightsville Beach, bringing joy to all who tasted them.
Cynthia is preceded in death by her parents, Clifton B. Vann, Jr. and Mary Vann, and her beloved husband, Jerry Strickland. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories for her family: son Sherwood Strickland and his wife Diane, daughter Cindy Connaway and her husband Shawn, and son Vann Strickland and his wife Christie. Her brothers Clifton B. Vann, III. and his wife Maryalice, Joel Vann and his wife Gay, and sister-in-law Gina Strickland Guzman and her husband Nestor, Luanna Strickland Wrede and husband David, brother-in-law Sherrill Strickland and his wife Jo. Her grandchildren Stetson Strickland, Shannon Strickland, Tyler Strickland, Grayson Strickland, Hannah Connaway, and Jacob Connaway, and her great grandchild Roman Strickland. She was so loved by many cousins, nieces and nephews who will also carry on her legacy.
A celebration of Cynthia’s remarkable life will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 2:00pm at the Wilmington Funeral & Cremation Chapel. Family and friends are invited to wear purple, honoring Cynthia’s favorite color, as we gather to celebrate a life well-lived. The family asks that anyone that plans to attend services, please RSVP under the Celebration of Life event below.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in Cynthia’s memory to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, an organization near and dear to her heart, to continue her legacy of giving and kindness.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caring team at Bradley Creek for their compassionate support during Cynthia’s final days.
In remembering Cynthia, we celebrate a life filled with love, laughter, and a profound impact on those she touched. Her legacy of kindness, honesty, and vibrant spirit will forever live on in our hearts.
Please leave memories and condolences for Cynthia’s family here.
