Hartwell Staff

Hartwell Staff

Our staff is comprised of dedicated and licensed professionals with the experience to answer all your questions regarding our services. Please feel free to contact any of our staff members at any time.

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J. ARNOLD STRICKLAND

Owner / Managing Funeral Director

Arnold Strickland is the son of our founders, Joe and Nell Strickland. Arnold embarked on his professional journey at just 10 years old, when he began working with his parents at Strickland Funeral Home. This began laying the foundation for a lifelong dedication to the funeral service industry. Arnold pursued his education with diligence. After graduating from Hart County High School in 1983 and Emmanuel College in 1985, he continued his academic journey at Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service, where he completed his degree in 1986. Equipped with both education and experience, he returned to the family business, ready to contribute with renewed vigor. In 1992 Arnold followed in the footsteps of his father to become the funeral director in charge.

Arnold is a dedicated professional, actively involved in several esteemed organizations. His membership in the Georgia Academy of Graduate Embalmers underscores his commitment to the craft of embalming. Furthermore, his affiliations with both the National Funeral Directors Association and the Georgia Funeral Directors Association highlight his dedication to maintaining high standards in funeral service. In addition to his professional commitments, Arnold is also a member of the Nancy Hart Masonic Lodge, reflecting his active involvement in community and fraternal organizations.

Arnold's personal life is as fulfilling as his professional one. He shares a loving family life with his wife, Tammy. Together, they have two children: their daughter, Abbie, who is married to Jamie, and their son, Matthew. Arnold and Tammy take great pride in being grandparents to three wonderful grandchildren— including granddaughter Logan and grandsons Mack and Cooper. They cherish every opportunity to spend time with their grandchildren, forming a supportive backdrop to Arnold's professional endeavors.

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JAMIE JOHNSON

Funeral Director

Jamie, a proud native of Hart County, has dedicated his life to serving his community in various capacities. As a licensed funeral director and embalmer, he brings compassion and dedication to his work, ensuring comfort and support for families during their most challenging times. He has been with the funeral home for more than twenty years.

A graduate of Hart County High School, Class of 1991, Jamie has maintained strong ties to his roots. When not at the funeral home, Jamie works diligently with his father on the family farm, a place rich with memories from his upbringing. This connection to the land not only strengthens family bonds but also keeps him grounded and appreciative of his heritage.

He and his wife, Mollie, have four children: Madison (Eli), Jessie (Catherine), Nikki (Jason), and Kaitlin (Jeremy). They also have eight grandchildren: Jeb, Sam, Lane, Austyn, Emmett, Kathrine, Bellamy, and Maelee. Jamie and Mollie are active members of Bethany Baptist Church.

Jamie's commitment to his community extends beyond his professional duties. As a volunteer firefighter, he dedicates his time and skills to protect and serve his neighbors. Additionally, he is a proud member of the Bowersville Masonic Lodge.

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MATTHEW STRICKLAND

Staff Position

Matthew is the son of Arnold and Tammy Strickland, and the grandson of founders Joe and Nell Strickland. Matthew is an alumnus of Hart County High School and Emmanuel University, earning a degree in business administration. Matthew is a licensed funeral director and embalmer. When he is not working at the funeral home, he enjoys gaming and being an uncle to Logan, Mack, and Cooper.

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PATSY BARTLETT

Hartwell Office Manager

Patsy, a cherished member of the Hartwell community, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role as the office manager of our Hartwell Chapel. Before joining our team, she retired from the Georgia Department of Corrections. Her commitment to service and organizational excellence enriches our community.

Patsy is an active member of the Bethesda United Methodist Church, where she contributes to the spiritual and social well-being of her community. Her family is a source of great joy and pride. She was the wife of the late Jeff Bartlett, and she is blessed with two wonderful children, Nathan Bartlett and Medley B. McIntosh, as well as three delightful grandchildren: Grady, Bailey, and Brinley Bartlett.

Patsy's deep roots in Hartwell and her devotion to both family and faith underscore her integral role in our community. Her leadership and warmth continue to make a positive impact on everyone around her.

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JERRY BROWN

Assistant Funeral Director

Jerry Brown, a proud native of Hart County, has dedicated much of his life to public service and community involvement. He retired from the Division of Public Health at Georgia's Department of Human Resources and the Georgia Army National Guard.

Jerry is graduate of Hart County High School and pursued higher education at Clemson University. His commitment to serving his community and his country is evident through his long-standing careers in public health and the military.

After spending 28 years in Snellville, Georgia, Jerry and his beloved wife, the late Carolyn Holland Brown, decided to return to their roots in Hartwell. The couple raised two children, Melanie and John, who reflect their parents' values of community and service.

Jerry remains an active member of the First Baptist Church of Hartwell, where he continues to contribute to the community.

Jerry assists grieving families with dedication and integrity as a funeral director’s assistant.

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FRANKIE TEASLEY

Assistant Funeral Director

Frankie, a resident of Hart County, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to our team as an assistant funeral director. Before joining us, Frankie retired from a distinguished career with the Georgia Department of Corrections. His commitment to public service extends beyond his professional life, as he also serves as a Commissioner for Hart County.

Frankie and his wife, Crystal, are active members of the Sardis Baptist Church. Together, they have raised two daughters, Hillary and Hannah Teasley.

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EARL SAYER

Assistant Funeral Director

Earl, a proud native of Hart County’s Vanna Community, has led a life marked by dedication and service to his community. He retired from Westinghouse in Athens, where he contributed significantly to the company's success. Not one to rest on his laurels, Earl then embraced a new role as an assistant funeral director at Strickland Funeral Home, where he continues to offer support and compassion to families in their times of need.

Earl and his wife, Carol, are devoted members of the Holly Springs Baptist Church. Together, they have raised three wonderful children, who have gone on to build families of their own. Earl and Carol are blessed with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, bringing joy and warmth to their lives.

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MARTHA DORSEY

Chapel Pianist

Martha Dorsey, a proud native of Hartwell, is a talented and accomplished individual who enriches her community with her skills and dedication. As the chapel pianist for Hartwell Chapel, she brings music and joy to many.

Martha is a licensed cosmetologist. Martha has an innate ability that allows her to connect with people on a personal level to make a positive impact on their lives.

Martha is married to Tommy Dorsey, and together they have raised three wonderful children. Her family is a cornerstone of her life, providing love and support in all her endeavors.

A dedicated member of the Flat Shoals Baptist Church, Martha serves as the church pianist/organist, where she shares her musical talents with the congregation.

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FRANKIE GRAY

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ANDY TOEWS