Robuster "Buster" Strickland, a long time resident of Phoenix, Arizona passed away and was received by the Lord on December 11, 2014 at the age of 91. Buster was born in Patrick County, Virginia in 1923. He married in 1944 and relocated to Phoenix, Arizona in 1949, where he raised his children with his wife of 70 years.
While living in Phoenix, Buster experienced many firsts: He was the first African American who held the roles of Truck Driver for Maricopa County Highway Department in Phoenix and Chief Inspector for the City of Phoenix Streets and Sanitation Department. He retired from his position as the City of Phoenix's first black Management Analyst.
Buster loved to fish, garden and cook. He was a member of First Institutional Baptist Church since 1949, where he sang in the choir and served on the Board of Trustees. Buster also served on the boards of Wesley Community Center-Phoenix, Elks Lodge and Ebony House, Inc. Among his many honors and awards Buster received the 2004 Ageless Hero Award for Vigor and Vitality presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield and the Arizona Republic.
Buster is survived by his loving wife, daughter, son, grandchildren, great and great-great grandchildren, extended family and many friends who love him dearly. We will miss him deeply as he goes home to be with his second born, who preceeded him in death in 2013. The Homegoing Celebration for Robuster Strickland will be held at First Institutional Baptist Church, 1141 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, AZ 85034 on Saturday, December 20, 2014. Viewing is at 10AM and Service at 11AM. Arrangements entrusted to Resthaven Park Mortuary & Cemetery.
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