May 28,1940—March 30, 2025
Affectionately known to so many as Gramps, graduated from Rosedale High School in Rosedale, Mississippi, and later obtained his degree from LaVerne College in LaVerne, California. He served in the Navy from January 23, 1962, to April 1, 1982, during which time he fought in the Vietnam War and the Cold War. He rose to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3.
He was an avid knife collector and walking stick creator. Preceding him in death were his parents, James and Vivian Stribling, and his brother, Cal Stribling.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Joan Todd Stribling, and his children: Patti Borders, Anne Doyle, Jayme Syrus, Julie Norwood and husband Frankie, Jimmy Pitts and wife Ann.
His grandchildren also survive him: Todd Raper, Lilly Borders, Kayleigh Helm and husband Patrick, Emily Wallace, Jennifer Syrus, Landon Syrus and wife Bailee, Logan Norwood and wife Cayla, Layton Norwood and wife Sara, Caleb Norwood, Bri Montoto, Annie Morrow, and Grady Pitts.
His great-grandchildren include Brody Borders, Makya High, Kaid Cash, Clara Roundtree, Makenna Green and husband Caleb, Luke Syrus, Mason Syrus, Chandler Norwood, Nash Norwood, and Leddy Norwood.
He was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Paris, Texas. The pallbearers will be his grandsons: Todd Raper, Logan Norwood, Layton Norwood, Caleb Norwood, Landon Syrus, and Grady Pitts.
Services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at Bright-Holland Funeral with Rev. Jeff Laughlin and Rev. Frankie Norwood officiating. Private burial will follow in Restland Cemetery at Roxton.
To leave a message or tribute for the family please visit www.brighthollandfuneralhome.com
