Annie Louise Cole Strickland, age 81, of Willard left this earthly life for her eternal rest on Saturday, April 27, 2013 from her residence.

She was born September 21, 1931 in Pender County and was the daughter of the late Jack and Katie Matthews Cole. She was also predeceased by her husband, Allen Strickland in 1981; brother, Charlie Cole; sister, Lucille Bonham and son-in-law, Carlyle Morrison.

Surviving to cherish her memory are her devoted children, Gail S. Morrison and Dwight Allen Strickland and wife, Shelley, all of Willard; her grandchildren, Todd Morrison and wife, Tonya, Tony Morrison and wife, Elizabeth, Bret Strickland and wife, Andrea and Blair Strickland; great grandchildren, Gracelyn Morrison, Emery Morrison, Peyton Morrison and Banks Strickland; sisters, Essie Padgett and husband, Tommy of Hampstead, Geraldine Dixon and husband, Dick of Petersburg, VA., Faye Carter and husband, Tommy of Rose Hill and Catherine Hardison and husband, Johnny of Teachey and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Louise was a devoted wife and loving mother, grandmother and sister who loved her family dearly. For over 40 years, she was owner-operator and cook of Strickland's Store where she acquired many long lasting friendships. Louise loved to cook, but watching others enjoy the food she prepared for them was even a greater pleasure for her. With her gentle spirit and soft-spoken voice, she filled her home and store with love and welcomed all who entered. Louise was caring, loving and a peacemaker who was not very interested in making money, but in making people happy. She will surely be missed but cherished memories of Louise will remain in our hearts forever.

Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 30, 2013 at Riverview Memorial Park, Watha with the Reverend Tom McMahon officiating.

There will be no visitation at the funeral home but the family will receive friends at Mrs. Strickland's home.

You may send your condolences to the family by selecting "Memory Wall" above.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Wallace.

Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 30, 2013 at Riverview Memorial Park, Watha.

There will be no visitation at the funeral home but the family will receive friends at Mrs. Strickland's home.