Watson Smith Strickland, Jr.

Watson Smith “Smitty” Strickland, Jr., 74, passed away August 12, 2024, in Columbia. Born on August 18, 1949, in Georgetown, he was the son of the late Watson Smith Strickland, Sr. and the late Edna Mae Bunn Strickland. “Smitty” graduated from Clemson University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree before continuing his academic journey at the University of South Carolina School of Law, where he earned his law degree. Along with his love for practicing law, “Smitty” had a great love for traveling. Survivors include a sister, Laura Kirkland of Georgetown; four nephews, John Power Wilson, III (Marsha) of Georgetown, William Glennie Wilson (Julie) of Pawleys Island, James Michael Wilson (Felicia) of Georgetown and Tres Kirkland of Shallote, NC; and three nieces, Martha McWhite Autry of Irmo, Jo Anne Wilson-Foxworth of Georgetown and Barbara McWhite of Irmo. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Louise McWhite and Betty Jo Wilson; and three brothers-in-law, Claude Kirkland, Grier McWhite and JP Wilson, Jr. A memorial service will be held at 2 PM Sunday, November 3, 2024, at First Baptist Church in Georgetown. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.ridgewayfh.com Ridgeway Funeral Home of Georgetown is in charge of the arrangements. (843) 485-4242