Doris Elaine May

Strickland

Doris Elaine May Strickland, 94, of Camden, Arkansas, passed away on Friday, November 6, 2026, just five days shy of her 95th birthday. She was born on November 11, 1931, in Ellisville, Arkansas, to William Edgar May and Gladys Hearnsberger May.

Doris was a woman of extraordinary kindness, grace, and compassion. She possessed a gentle spirit and a heart that seemed to have room for everyone. She never met a stranger and welcomed all who crossed her path with open arms and unconditional love. Those fortunate enough to know her will remember her soft-spoken nature, her warm smile, and the remarkable way she made everyone feel loved and valued. She rarely had an unkind word to say and never seemed to find a reason to complain. She was, in every sense of the word, a true example of an angel on earth.

A woman of strong Christian faith, Doris lived her life as a beautiful reflection of God's love. Her faith was evident not only in what she believed but in the way she treated others—with patience, forgiveness, humility, and unwavering kindness. She had a servant's heart and a gentle spirit, quietly touching countless lives through the simple but extraordinary gift of loving others.

A talented seamstress for more than 50 years, Doris was known for her beautiful craftsmanship, creating countless draperies for homes throughout the years. Her work was a reflection of the patience, dedication, and care she put into everything she did.

Above all else, Doris treasured her family. Nothing brought her greater happiness than having her loved ones gathered together. Whether surrounded by children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, or friends who felt like family, she cherished every moment spent with those she loved. Her home was a place of warmth and welcome, where everyone belonged and no one was ever made to feel like a stranger. Her love was constant, selfless, and unconditional. She found joy in life's simplest blessings, including the cardinals and hummingbirds she so dearly loved.

Throughout her life, Doris was blessed with three marriages, each representing a special chapter in her life's journey. She shared 22 years of marriage with her first husband, George William "G.W." Young, with whom she welcomed her two beloved children, Vicki and Ricky. She later shared 29 years of marriage with Bill P. Edwards, building a lifetime of treasured memories together. In a later chapter of her life, she married Berry Strickland, with whom she shared one year of marriage. Though each of these beloved husbands preceded her in death, the love, companionship, and memories they shared remained a meaningful part of her life's story.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents, William Edgar May and Gladys Hearnsberger May; her stepmother, Nettie Hornaday Rothwell May, who lovingly raised her following the passing of her mother when Doris was just four years old; her three husbands, George William "G.W." Young, Bill P. Edwards, and Berry Strickland; her beloved son, George Richard "Ricky" Young; her siblings, Lorene Watson Creed, Louise Rothwell Orman, Verna May Hudson, Rex Rothwell, Edward May, and Pat Rothwell; her son-in-law, Dr. Thomas Malcom Dedman; and numerous other beloved family members.

Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Vicki Young Dedman; her grandchildren, Greg Barton, Stacy Evans (Craig), Heather Jordan (Ryan), Alex Kammerer, Joshua Johnston, Dallas Young, and Jacob Dedman; her great-grandchildren, Gamble Barton, Brooklyn Evans, Piper Evans, Zachary Jordan, Ben Jordan, and Ella Jordan; her siblings, Charles May and Diane May McBryde (Wes); her brother-in-law, Louis Ray Young (Renie); and a host of extended family members and dear friends.

While her absence leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved her, there is comfort in knowing that her earthly journey has ended and she is now resting in the arms of her Heavenly Father. The legacy she leaves behind is one of faith, unconditional love, gentleness, and kindness. She taught those around her, not through grand gestures or many words, but through the beautiful example of the life she lived. Her love will continue to be felt in every cherished memory, every act of kindness, and every life she touched.

To know Doris was to love her, and to be loved by her was one of life's greatest blessings.

Visitation will be held Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 1:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. at Proctor Funeral Home in Camden, Arkansas, with a memorial service immediately following. Bro. Carley Davis will officiate.

The family would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank-you to the dedicated staff of Silver Oaks Health and Rehabilitation, Arbor Hospice, and Dr. Larry Braden for all their exceptional care, kindness, and compassion shown to Doris. Your gentle hands, caring hearts, and unwavering dedication brought comfort not only to her but also to her family. Your love and kindness during her final journey will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.