Carolyn Strickland, born Carolyn Bell Swain on December 24, 1924, in Hazlehurst, Georgia, is the  youngest of nine daughters. After college, Carolyn  relocated to Atlanta, where she met Navy dive bomber  James Strickland. The couple married in 1946, embarking  on a life intertwined with military service. During postings  in North Carolina, the Stricklands had two sons, James Jr.  and Steven. While living in Alabama, Carolyn was a principal’s assistant, where she lived with her husband for 50  years before moving in 2011 to East Cobb, Georgia, to be  closer to their sons, both of whom live in Marietta. James  Jr. is in the same East Cobb neighborhood.  

Carolyn and her husband, James, celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary by participating in our very  own 2016 EAST COBBER parade. Carolyn, then 91, drove  their 92 Cadillac convertible. 

CELEBRATING A CENTURY: EAST COBB RESIDENT TURNS 100 1Approaching her 100th birthday, Carolyn’s family,  known for their longevity, gathered to celebrate her life.All eight of her sisters lived into their 90s, as did her moth er. According to East Cobb News, When asked about  the secret to her long life, Carolyn remarked, “I don’t  really have an answer for it.” Her son, James Jr., attributes  it partly to her healthy cooking, recalling dishes like tur nip greens, cooked cabbage, and spinach, though he  admits, “I’ll have to find another key to longevity.” 

Despite recent mobility challenges, Carolyn remains  active, enjoying outings with her sons and playing bridge  with friends. She maintains her independence, stating, “I  really like to do my own thing.” Reflecting on her life, she  shares, “All I can tell you is I’ve had a good life. I haven’t  had much of anything to worry about.” 

Carolyn’s life story is a testament to resilience, family bonds, and community involvement, embodying a  century well-lived. We wish you a very happy 100th Year,  young lady!