Cyrena Ruth Strickling Campbell, 94, of Plant City, died May 9, 2015, in her home.
She was originally from Woodsfield, Ohio. Upon graduating from high school, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked for the federal government during the war years. She married her husband of 61 years, Marvin, in 1948. Along with their infant son, Jeffrey, they moved to Florida in the early ‘50s. “Cy,” as she was affectionately known by her friends and family, contributed greatly to the lives of her children, family, and friends. She enjoyed being involved at First Presbyterian Church of Plant City, as well as working with the Boy and Girl Scouts. She especially enjoyed her career as school secretary at her beloved Jackson Elementary School. Upon retiring, she embarked on many new adventures, such as fulfilling a lifelong dream to travel to Australia. She always had livestock, a garden and pets, and loved being outdoors. Most of all, she loved her family, upon whom she bestowed a legacy more valuable than any material possession. She emphasized education, hard work, honesty and most of all, love.
She is survived by her children, Jeffrey Campbell (Karen) and Donna Sizemore (Jay); “adopted” daughter, Pat Townsend (Johnnie); grandchildren, Matthew Campbell, Holly Campbell (Dennis Bakriges), Sara Sizemore-Cruz (James), Jennifer Sizemore-Switch (Joel), Jack P. Sizemore III (Lindsey), Wendy Wolfe (Robby) and David Ross (Kristine); and great-grandchildren, Julia Switch, Nolen Cruz, Jenna Switch, Jack P. Sizemore IV, Sage Campbell Bakriges, Nicholas Wolfe, Zachary Wolfe and Kassidy Wolfe. She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin; and daughter, Nancy.
A celebration of life was held May 15, at Hopewell Funeral Home. The family wishes to extend a special thanks to all the people who have lovingly cared for Mrs. Campbell. Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.