Clara Ruth Strickland Brinkley

Clara Ruth Strickland Brinkley, 86, of Marion, passed peacefully from this life on the morning of Saturday, November 30, 2024 while at the Cranberry House in Newland.

She was born in Madison County on November 17, 1938 to the late Merritt Strickland and Gertrude Rathbone Strickland. 

Clara proudly retired from Galey and Lord, where she served as a cloth inspector for many years. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Clara was an avid reader, often immersing herself in various genres. Her artistic talents shone brightly, including her poetic skills. She was a published poet, a testament to her love for words and her ability to express emotions through her writing. Clara's personality was characterized by her deep patriotism. Following the death of her husband in 1986, she remained wholly devoted to her family for the rest of her life. She will be deeply missed.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Boyd Brinkley; one son, Samuel Brinkley; and her brothers and sisters, Earl Strickland, Carroll Strickland, Judith Lanier, Etrula Lowe, and Kenneth Strickland.

She is survived by three children, Sandra Rhinehart (Douglas), Kimberly Capps (Winfred), and Mickey Brinkley; four grandchildren, Shelby Martin, Shane Brinkley, Audrey Rhinehart, and Timothy McCracken; and four great-grandchildren.

No services are planned at this time.