Elaine Claire Buckley Strickland will be laid to rest in Old Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery in Natchitoches, Louisiana, on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, after meeting her Lord and Savior on Monday, June 29, 2026, at the age of 74 years.

Survived by Husband, William James Strickland, Jr.; Son, Heath Paul Goins, (Tonya C. Smith); Sisters, Debra B. McLeod (Wm. Gene); Catherine B. Smith, Melanie B. Fontenot; Brothers, Joseph M. Buckley (Trudi); Gerald E. Stewart, Jr.; Grandchildren, Lara Paige Reed; Lindsey Claire Goins; Five Great Grandchildren, several Nieces and Nephews with Rachel Michelle Vick and William Mathew McLeod being among some of her favorites, and Step-Father, Gerald E. Stewart; Step-Mother, Nannette G. Mayes.

Gone before her are Father, Marvin D. Buckley; Mother, Alicia P. Stewart; Niece, Jessica D. McLeod; Nephew, Ronald D. Smith, Jr.; Step-Son, Patrick James Strickland.

Lovingly known as "Sandi", she was employed at RDS Construction for 24 years. As a long-time member of Old Bethel Baptist Church, she enjoyed participating in music activities, Sunday School teaching, Bible School and officer responsibilities along with many other volunteer services.

Sandi's creative writing, comedy, and loving spirit are among her many talents we will all miss.

Pallbearers: Heath Paul Goins, Gene Mcleod, Derek C. Vick, Joseph M. Buckley, Conner Dylan Smith, Anthony Dwayne Fontenot II,

Honorary Pallbearers: Jason K. Aldredge, Gerald E. Stewart, Jr.

Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at Old Bethel Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 11a.m. to 12 p.m. with services to follow at Old Bethel Baptist Church located at 504 Old Bethel Church Road, Natchitoches, LA 71457.