Honoring the Legacy of Thomas “Tommy” Strickland: A Champion for Families in Crisis

It has been two years since the passing of Thomas “Tommy” Strickland on June 27, 2023, and while time continues to move forward, the legacy he left behind still reverberates across Effingham County—especially within the walls of Family Promise of the Coastal Empire.

Mr. Strickland was not only a pillar of the nonprofit community but a quiet, consistent force behind countless acts of generosity that changed lives. His compassion wasn’t just felt—it was lived by families who found shelter, stability, and dignity because he believed they deserved it.

For those of us who work daily to support families experiencing housing crises, Tommy wasn’t just a donor—he was a friend, a mentor, and a believer in the mission. His belief that every child should have a bed to sleep in, every parent should feel safe, and every family should have the opportunity to thrive made him a powerful ally in the fight against homelessness.

Tommy’s impact on Family Promise of the Coastal Empire was transformative. Whether through generous financial support, connecting us with other community leaders, or showing up—again and again—to advocate for families in transition, his presence uplifted our work. He never sought recognition, but his actions demanded it. He listened with intention, gave without hesitation, and loved without condition.

It is rare to find someone who leads with both heart and hands. Tommy did both. His involvement with Family Promise wasn’t performative—it was deeply personal. He understood that systemic issues like poverty and displacement required more than policy shifts; they required people willing to roll up their sleeves and stand beside those facing hardship.

Two years later, we still feel the loss of his wisdom and warmth. But we also feel a responsibility—to carry his legacy forward, to serve with the same humility and compassion, and to remember that one person’s unwavering support can change the trajectory of an entire community.

To the Strickland family, thank you for sharing Tommy with us. And to Tommy: thank you for believing in Family Promise, in our families, and in the power of community. Your legacy lives on in every family that finds hope, every child that sleeps safely, and every life transformed through love and shelter.

We remember. We honor. We promise to continue the work you so faithfully supported.