Rachel Lee (Strickland) Gard 6:00 A.M. Rachel Lee

Rachel Lee (Strickland) Gard 6:00 A.M. Rachel Lee Strickland Gard, age 90, passed away early Tuesday morning, September 8th 2026 to meet her Lord and Savior, at home with family at her side. Rachel was born March 31, 1936 in Los Angeles, California to Elton Green Strickland and Effie Quails Strickland. She grew up in Rochester, TX and in Odessa, TX. She had 5 older sisters, 1 younger sister, and 2 younger brothers. She loved her family dearly. She dedicated her life to helping her parents, siblings, husband, and children. She married Bobby Earl Gard April 21st, 1961. She and Bobby were married 59 years. Bobby's work required traveling across the country and, at times, overseas. Rachel loved traveling with him, and together they visited most every state. One job placed them in France for a year, where they were able to tour much of Europe. Rachel loved collecting mementos from all her traveling; including State Birds, dolls, and fine art. She also loved her jewelry, which she wore at all times. She loved the traveling, but the place she loved the most was being home; which was primarily Odessa less a few retirement years in beautiful Mobile Alabama. In addition to all of her travels, she loved spending time playing cards and bowling with her family. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Bobby Earl Gard. Her parents: Elton Strickland, Effie and James Rouse; her older sisters, Floy May Goode, Glendora Parker, Betty Badgwell, Wanda Jones, and Imogene Peterson. She is survived by her brothers Claude Strickland and Michael Strickland, and her dear sister Donna Honnoll, with whom she was blessed to be sharing her home with at the time of her death. She is also survived by her three children: son Mark Gard, daughter Serena Freeland & husband Paul Freeland, and daughter Sherry Wilson and Steve Brown, as well as her 4 grandchildren: Jodie Osborn and husband Matt, Kyle Wilson, David Freeland and his wife Brittany, and Michael Freeland. She also has four precious great grandchildren: Abbey Marie Osborn, Austin Mark Osborn, Easton Young Freeland, and Jax Michael Freeland. Rachel recently celebrated her 90th birthday at her home, where she was able to welcome family and friends; some of whom she hadn't seen in years. We thank God for her good health and sound mind to enjoy the celebration and enjoy being with family and friends. A celebration of life will be held at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, with Deacon Leroy Morrison officiating. Date is currently pending. The family gives thanks for the love and attention provided from St. Barnabas. The family would like to extend our gratitude for the care she received from Maria at Hospice, and for the wonderful program at Meals - On - Wheels.