Mrs. Cynthia "Cindy" Elizabeth Strickland Futch, age 73, of Starke passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 25th, 2026 at HCA North Florida Hospital in Gainesville. Cindy was born on December 21st, 1952 in Jacksonville to the late Frow and Elizabeth (Moyer) Strickland and has been a lifetime resident of Bradford County. She grew up on Kingsley Lake working in the renowned family business, Strickland's Landing and was a proud graduate of Bradford High School class of 1970. She embodied unparalleled school spirit, with a reputation as a true "Tornado" through her steadfast support of athletic programs—shown in her attendance, her generous time, and her financial contributions. When she was not cheering on her precious Tornadoes, she was enjoying her second love, the Florida Gators. Cindy was a longtime Gator Booster Club member and held season tickets to the UF football games which brought her immense joy. She was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church of Starke—now known as Foundation Church—where she found pleasure singing in the choir. Cindy was the co-owner of Jones Funeral Home and Jones Convalescent Service and remained a continuing supporter of the funeral business. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her nephew, Don Thornton.

Those left to cherish her memory include her loving and devoted husband of 43 years, P. Steven "Steve" Futch of Starke: her two daughters, Elizabeth Rowell Lee (Mark) of Lighthouse Point and Stephanie Futch Todd of Gainesville: Cindy was most proudly known as Mema by her granddaughter Sydney Elizabeth Todd of Gainesville with whom she had an incredibly special relationship. Surviving siblings include, Elaine Thornton (Donnie), Gloria Valinski (John), Stuart Strickland (Carol) all of Kingsley Lake: and Steve Strickland of Lake City. Additionally, there are nieces, nephews and many cousins.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, April 10th, 2026 at 7:00 pm at David Hurse Football Stadium located off Atkins Street at Bradford High School. In honor of Cindy, please wear Bradford Tornado colors. Pastor Josh Reinken will officiate the service. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate contributions to be made to the Bradford High School Athletics program at 581 N Temple Avenue, Starke. Arrangements are with JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME OF STARKE (904)964-6200 www.jonesgallagherfh.com Cindy is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. One thing is for sure, that she is the biggest cheerleader Heaven ever gained.