James W StricklandJames W. Strickland, 77, of Ellensburg, Washington passed away on Monday, March 2nd with his sons by his side. Jim was born on June 27, 1937 in Lumberton, NC to Rozier and Sally Marie Strickland, one of 9 children. He is a proud member of the Lumbee Indian Tribe of North Carolina. After graduating from high school, he joined the United States Army. He was stationed in Europe and was honorably discharged in 1959. He made his way to California where he met his wife, Kay Strickland and they married in 1964. After Jim and Bob were born, they decided it was time to move to Ellensburg, where Kay had grown up. Jim worked for the City of Ellensburg until his retirement.Jim will always be known as a great family man, his motto being "It is all about family." He was a great father and friend to his two sons, James N. and Robert Strickland and their families. He will be remembered for buying pizza for family gatherings, his great laugh, wisdom he would dispense to his family and his acceptance of all.Jim was an incredibly proud grandfather, and we often couldn't get a hand on our own babies as Papa always wanted to hold them. He took great delight in watching them play sports as they got older. Jim was an avid golfer and could be seen at the Ellensburg Golf Club 6 days a weekuntil his health declined. Jim was also a proud member of the Ellensburg Eagles for many years.He was survived by his two sons, James N (Lori) and Robert (Noel) and his grandchildren: Jory, Cole, Landon, Macen and Cade Strickland. He is also survived by his sister Daphne Light of North Carolina and Junior Strickland of Tacoma, WA. Jim is also survived by friend and companion Jan Dixon these past couple of years. The family appreciates your support and friendship you gave Jim. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Kay (Jones) Strickland in 2004 and 5 siblings.A memorial will be held at the Ellensburg Eagles on Sunday, March 8th at 2pm. Please bring your pictures and stories to share. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the .