Mary Ann Strickland, age 90, entered the presence of her Lord and Savior on June 21, 2026, and was reunited with the love of her life, Carlton D. Strickland, after a life marked by faith, devotion, and love for her family.

Born on January 27, 1936, in Baytown, Texas, Mary Ann Elms was the daughter of Roy and Margaret Elms. She grew up in Baytown alongside her sister, Sara, and brother, Donny, all of whom preceded her in death. Mary Ann had been adopted and later in life discovered she had biological siblings and was blessed with the opportunity to connect with them.

In 1957, she married Carlton D. Strickland, beginning a marriage that would span more than six decades. Together they built a home centered on faith, family, and service to others. Following Carlton's passing in 2023, Mary Ann often spoke of her longing to see him again, and her family takes comfort in knowing that they are now reunited in Heaven.

Mary Ann dedicated many years of her life to teaching elementary school students in Baytown, where she impacted countless young lives through her patience, kindness, and encouragement. She and Carlton were longtime members of First Baptist Church of Baytown, where she faithfully served in many capacities. After retirement, they moved to New Braunfels, Texas, where she continued her active involvement in church life. She especially enjoyed singing in the choir, playing handbells, participating in the puppet ministry, and sharing the love of Christ with those around her.

Above all else, Mary Ann loved her family. She treasured every opportunity to gather with her children and grandchildren, celebrating milestones, holidays, and everyday moments that brought everyone together.

She is survived by her four sons and their spouses: Steven and Teresa Strickland, David and Keri Strickland, Wade and Denise Strickland, and Ken and Paige Strickland.

She was a proud "DeeDee" to sixteen grandchildren: Dillon Strickland; Rachel and Matt Varner; Emily Strickland; Taylor Strickland; Danielle Woods and Josh Woods; Brandon and Mia Strickland; Dara Strickland; Chase and Leanne Strickland; Clay and Havanna Strickland; Jeremiah Esquivel; and Andrew Esquivel; Lydia Strickland; Anna Strickland; Leah Strickland; Isaac and Amelia Strickland; and Abigail Strickland.

She was also blessed with many great-grandchildren, including Joseph and Marie; Naomi, John Paul, and Mary Ann; and Eleanor and Rosie, who brought her immense joy.

Mary Ann's legacy is one of unwavering faith, selfless service, and unconditional love. She taught by example, demonstrating kindness, generosity, and a steadfast trust in God throughout her life. Her influence will continue to be felt through the generations of family members, students, church friends, and all who were blessed to know her.

While her family mourns her passing, they rejoice in the promise of eternal life and take comfort in knowing that she is now at peace in the presence of her Savior, reunited with Carlton and those who have gone before her.

Services will be held Monday, June 29th, at 10:00am, at Doeppenschmidt Funeral Home, 189 N. Seguin Ave., New Braunfels, Texas. The burial service will take place on Tuesday, June 30th, at 9:00am, at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23