Mr. Charles Jerome Stricklen Sr.

Charles Jerome Stricklen, Jr. was born May 9, 1926 in Cincinnati, Ohio. As the second child born to the union of the late Beula Anderson and George Stricklen, Charles always took care of his big sister Cathy. In her final days, Charles was Cathy’s caregiver because his spirit always led him to take care of his family. When George Stricklen moved to Detroit in the early 1930’s, he met and wed Elizabeth Eubanks. To this union, four children were born. Charles adored his stepmother Elizabeth and she raised him like he was her natural son. At an early age Charles joined Second Baptist where he was baptised by Reverend Robert Bradby. Charles grew up in church and was a faithful Christian. He was a member of the Young Adult Class 21. His stepmother Elizabeth was the teacher. He loved Class 21 and was in attendance every Sunday. He was always eager to serve and volunteered for many church activities. As a long standing and respected member of Second Baptist, Charles served as a Deacon of the church for over 30 years. Educated at Duffield Elementary and Miller High School, Charles graduated with honors. Always interested in planes, Charles worked part-time for Capital Airlines at Detroit’s City Airport. After his high school graduation, Charles entered the Army and served our country in World War II. After his honourable discharge, Charles was offered a full-time position with Capital Airlines which later was named United Airlines. Charles married his high school sweetheart Bertha Dudley whom he loved and cherished without fail. For their wedding Charles purchased he and Bertha's first home. He made sure they could move in on the day they took their vows because that is what Bertha wanted for them. Always taking care of his family, Charles made sure his love, Bertha, never wanted for anything: an attribute Bertha would often share with her friends. Charles and Bertha had two sons, Cornell Jerome, who preceded him in death, and Charles Dwayne. Charles was proud of his family. After 45 years of dedicated service, Charles retired from United Airlines as lead supervisor of Ground Service. While at United, Charles received numerous honours and awards and was an active member of the Union IAM - Local 141. He was affectionately known as “Bagroom Charlie” to his United colleagues. As an airline employee, Charles was able to take Bertha and travel the world together. Their favorite destinations included the Caribbean, Hawaii, Barbados, and Acapulco. Charles and Bertha would often jump on a plane to California to visit their dear friends, the Rimsons, and travel along with the Couples Club to exiting destinations. Charles also enjoyed building model airplanes, fishing and camping with his sons.

Mr. Charles Jerome Stricklen Sr.

May 9, 1926 - February 21, 2014