It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Alex Dwaine Estrada, lovingly known as "Dwaine," who departed this life on January 26, 2025, at the age of 79. He was a cherished father, grandfather, brother, uncle, great-uncle, and a devoted friend to many.

Dwaine was born on December 12, 1945, in Bridgeport, Nebraska, to Benjamin and Rosella Estrada. He grew up in Bridgeport as one of 19 children, a close-knit and vibrant family. During his high school years at Bridgeport High School, Dwaine excelled as an athlete, earning the nickname "Tank" while playing football, basketball, participating as a track manager, and a member of the "B" club. He proudly graduated with the Class of 1963.

Later in life, Dwaine made Lavonia, Georgia, his home, where his kindness, generosity, and love for storytelling left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was an avid fan of the Georgia Bulldogs and the Nebraska Cornhuskers, supporting both teams with passion.

Dwaine was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Rosella Estrada; his brothers Frank, Tix, Don, Ferman, Richard, Ted, and Bill; his sisters Ruth and Bernice; and his grandson, Conner Dwaine Estrada.

He is survived by his two sons, Shannon Dwaine Estrada (Jacqueline) and Rodney Dwaine Estrada (Stephanie), and his four grandchildren: Claire Elizabeth Estrada, Alison Lydia Estrada-Dunaway (Aaron), Jacob Jimmy Estrada, and Nathan Dwaine Estrada. Additionally, he is survived by five sisters, Della Perez (Jerry), Rita Estrada, Delores Moore, Joyce Hope (Ted), Vicki Samples (Harry), two brothers Les Estrada (Marsha), and George Estrada. Dwaine's memory will also live on in the hearts of his many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Dwaine will be remembered for the quiet but profound ways he showed love — whether through a kind word, a shared story, or simply being present for those he cared about. He found joy in life's simplest pleasures: spending time with his grandchildren, riding the golf cart with Milo (the family dog), talking sports, caring for his son Shannon, and cooking for everyone. He had a unique ability to see and appreciate the beauty in the little moments that so often go unnoticed.

The family will hold a celebration of life in Lavonia, Georgia and a small, private gathering in Bridgeport, Nebraska, to honor his memory.

The Estrada family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at AnMed Anderson Hospital for their compassionate care during Dwaine's final days.

As Grandpa Dwaine would say at the end of any conversation, "Well darlin', that's life in the big city!"

"The Old Rugged Cross" – Alan Jackson

"So I'll cherish the old rugged cross, Till my trophies at last I lay down; I will cling to the old rugged cross, And exchange it someday for a crown."

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. To sign the online guest register please visit stricklandfh.com.