Joan Strickland Hyland, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, neighbor, and community volunteer, was born on August 11, 1946, in Mullins, South Carolina, to her parents, Omar Keith Strickland and Geneva McDaniel. She passed away on June 18, 2023, in Cary, North Carolina, from complications associated with Factor V Leiden, a genetic disorder that increases the risk of blood clotting. She leaves a legacy of love, family, friendship, and service.

The daughter of an Air Force officer, Joan and her brother, Sam Strickland of Austin, Texas, spent their formative years living overseas in England, Germany, and Okinawa. When the family returned stateside, Joan attended high school in Annandale, Virginia, where she led the band as a majorette. She matriculated at Clemson University in 1964 and was in the first class to live on campus in female housing.

After Clemson, Joan shared a remarkable journey with her devoted husband, Michael J. Hyland, for 57 years. Their lives spanned many states and residences, from New York, Connecticut, Florida, Texas, and North Carolina. Together, they built a life filled with love, support, and cherished memories. Her three children, Mike Jr., Patrick, and Megan, were Joan's pride and joy. And the families they formed with their spouses, Carolyn, Jessie, and Brian, were a source of endless delight for Joan. She was a cherished grandmother to eight wonderful grandchildren—Katie, Maggie, Tom, Airyn, Aidyn, Aidy, Owen, and Lizzie. She adored each of them. Her love for her family knew no bounds, and she was deeply devoted to their happiness and well-being.

Joan's kindness and generosity extended beyond her family to her neighbors and community. She was a member of numerous social groups, including her beloved Card Club, book clubs, and Bible study classes. And she volunteered at Crossnore, a foster care community in North Carolina, with the Daughters of the American Revolution. The mission and service of Crossnore deeply moved her, and she dedicated her time and efforts to helping children in need.

Throughout her life, Joan brought joy and happiness to those around her. Her kindness and compassion touched the hearts of many. She loved reading novels, playing tennis and bridge, chatting with her neighbors, and caring for the bluebirds, butterflies, and bunnies that visited her backyard.

The family requests donations be sent to Crossnore Communities for Children to honor Joan's memory. Each contribution will help support the community she cared for deeply and will be a testament to her loving spirit. (www.crossnore.org)

A Celebration of Joan's Life will be held at Prestonwood Country Club in Cary, NC, on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, from 11 am to 3 pm. The family invites all friends, relatives, and acquaintances whose lives Joan touched to join them in commemorating the life of this remarkable woman.