Jada Faustine Strickland

Jada Faustine Strickland, affectionately known as “Strick,” entered eternal rest on December 13, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia, at the age of 24. She was a resident of Fairburn, Georgia. Jada was born on July 27, 2001, in Atlanta, Georgia, to Elie and Hamilton Strickland. She was baptized and later confirmed in the Lutheran faith at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Peachtree City, Georgia - a foundation that shaped her values and remained central to her life. From an early age, she was known for her bright smile, infectious laughter, and joyful spirit. Her laughter filled rooms and hearts alike, and her presence brought comfort, warmth, and light to all who knew her. Jada began her educational journey at E.C. West Elementary School and later attended Bear Creek Middle School, where her love for music deepened through her introduction to the viola. After completing her first year at Creekside High School, Jada went on to attend and graduate from St. Paul Lutheran High School in Concordia, Missouri. She excelled academically and athletically, earning All-Conference Honorable Mention, All-District Tournament Team recognition, and serving as team captain her senior year. A dedicated and talented student, Jada balanced academics with athletics and the arts; playing basketball and soccer, performing in the school orchestra, and earning the respect and admiration of her friends, classmates, and faculty. In recognition of her character, leadership, and radiant personality, she was crowned Homecoming Queen, a distinction she received with both pride and humility. She continued her academic and athletic journey at LaGrange College in LaGrange, Georgia, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree with majors in Psychology and Graphic Design while competing as a member of the women’s basketball team. Jada enjoyed a successful collegiate athletic career marked by notable accolades: she was named to the USA South All-Sportsmanship Team and was a recipient of the Heart of the Panther Award. She also achieved several personal bests, reflecting her unwavering commitment to excellence. Whether on the court or in the classroom, she carried herself with determination, grace, and joy. Jada had a deep love for animals, especially dogs. Her time spent at Four Paws Animal Hospital in LaGrange, Georgia, and Powers Ferry Animal Hospital in Sandy Springs, Georgia, brought her immense joy. These experiences inspired countless text messages and hilarious videos featuring the animals she cared for so deeply, while also fostering a profound respect for the field of veterinary medicine. Jada found happiness in many passions, including NFL football, basketball, soccer, NASCAR, gaming, bike riding (but not driving), and music - especially Charlie Wilson and Ariana Grande, who frequently appeared in her shared playlists. She also loved collecting colognes, proudly referring to herself as a self-proclaimed “scentologist”. No matter the setting, her laughter, authenticity, and vibrant energy were ever present, leaving lasting memories with family and friends. Jada was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Fausta and Rev. Albert Mongi; her paternal grandmother, Betty Lynn Strickland; her great-grandmother, Betty Lou Peters; and her beloved pets Asia, China, Oscar, and Bubbles, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She is survived by her devoted mother, Elie Mongi-Strickland; her father, Hamilton Strickland; her supportive and encouraging brothers, Joshua and Jordan Strickland; her godparents, Marvin and Bunnette Dock, and their children Kia (son Amani), Brittany, and Heather (daughter Paisley); her paternal grandfather, Fred Strickland; and a host of loving aunts, cousins, extended family, and dear friends. These include Dr. T. Lynn Strickland; Fredrica Martin and her children Megan, Marissa, Samantha, and Samone; Hoita Mongi and her children Noreen, Myra, and Caleb; Aichi Foster and her children Samara, Oriana, and Axel; Aika Mongi and her daughter Aidah; Enge Mongi and her son Luther; along with many second cousins and extended family in Tanzania. She is also lovingly remembered by her classmates, teammates, cherished friends, and the many “second moms and dads” who nurtured and and loved her as their own daughter - encouraging her, supporting her, and guiding her in her faith. Their influence and care truly helped shape the person she became. A funeral service celebrating the life of Jada Faustine Strickland will be held at Parrott Funeral Home. Her final resting place will be honored through a private family ceremony at the memorial gardens at Forest Lawn at a later date. In memory of Jada, a bench will be placed on the campus of St. Paul Lutheran High School in front of the girls’ dormitory, a tree will be planted on campus, and a commendation prayer will be held in her honor. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the scholarship in Jada’s memory at St. Paul Lutheran High School in Concordia, Missouri. Though her time with us was far too brief, and despite life’s challenges, Jada rose above them with her remarkable qualities. Jada’s joyful laughter, loving heart, and steadfast faith in Christ, firmly holding on to His grace in the midst of struggle, will forever remain in the hearts of all who loved her. In honor of Jada’s life and legacy, a scholarship fund has been established in her memory at St. Paul Lutheran High School. For those who wish to contribute, in lieu of flowers a donation link is provided below. https://splhs.org/support/giving/ “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Psalm 121:1–2 (NIV)

Jada Faustine Strickland

July 27, 2001 - December 13, 2025