DOTHAN, Ala.—Foy Strickland, founder of Tri-State Tire & Rubber Co. in Dothan, died Aug. 7 at the age of 89.
Born May 9, 1926, in Dothan, Mr. Strickland served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army's 503rd parachute infantry regiment during World War II.
In 1967, he launched what would ultimately become a third-generation family tire business, Tri-State Tire. According to its website, the company is a single-outlet retail and commercial tire dealership located in Dothan for the last 46 years.
Mr. Strickland was a member of Southside Baptist Church in Dothan since 1959, where he served as deacon and teacher of the Foy Strickland Sunday School Class, teaching the class bearing his name for nearly 45 years.
In addition, Mr. Strickland's desire to serve his community was highlighted by 24 years of service on the Southeast Alabama Medical Center board of directors. He served as chairman of the board from 1993 to 1997. He also spent 35 years on the Dothan Housing Authority Board.
Mr. Strickland is survived by his wife of 66 years, Betty Strickland; son Tony Strickland (Pam); grandsons Drew Strickland (Beth), Reid Strickland and Seth Strickland; and three great-grandsons. He was preceded in death by seven siblings.