Charles Vaiden Strickland Jr., 69, passed away April 7. 2025, at his home in Selma. Born May 22, 1955, in Wake County, he was the son of Charles Vaiden Strickland Sr. and Shirley Carroll Chamblee. In addition to his mother, Vaiden is preceded in death by his partner, Melissa Gandy; son, Jonathan Strickland; brother, Michael Strickland; and brother-in-law, Gregory Lauvray.

Vaiden was a man of many passions. He enjoyed many sports, including golfing, bowling, and Nascar. He was also a devoted UNC Tarheels fan. He loved his family deeply, especially his grandchildren. He always cherished celebrating Thanksgiving in Ohio, where laughter and memories were always in abundance. Vaiden enjoyed traveling and had a complicated (but entertaining) love/hate relationship with the beach. He was known for having the best laugh, and will be missed dearly by his friends and family.

Vaiden is survived by his father, Charles Vaiden Strickland Sr.; children, Chuck Strickland, Lori Strickland, Candi Checketts (Chris), Michael Strickland, and Bryan Strickland (Lauren); sisters, Debbi Lauvray and Sandy Kuck (Stuart); brother, Tom Emig (Denise); 11 grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog Tay Tay.

A visitation to celebrate Vaiden's life will be held in the Chapel of Parrish Funeral Home on Monday, April 14, 2025, from 5:00pm-7:00pm, with a prayer service during the visitation at 6:45pm. Flowers are appreciated.