Loveta Strickland

Loveta (Moore) Strickland, noted Central Texas artist, passed away January 20, 2025, at age 100. She was born on September 14, 1924, in Waco to Joseph Clarence and Florence (nee Deason) Moore. She lived almost all her life within the immediate Waco area and attended La Vega Schools 1932-1941. She met William Clinton (“Strick”) Strickland in Colorado in 1943 and they married in Alabama (his home state) on January 27, 1947. They returned to Waco in late 1948 where Strick worked in construction, and they eventually raised 4 children. 

Loveta's fascination with art began about 55 years ago, when her youngest son, Dana, convinced her to take art classes with him. She proved to be a receptive student, and her love for the medium blossomed into a very successful career, not only as a highly regarded fine artist in her own right, but also as a diligent teacher of others. She traveled extensively, both to teach and to gain inspiration for her work from many scenic landscapes and gardens. She made her mark in the art community for her Texas bluebonnet paintings. She traveled much of Texas studying various native trees, flowers, and wildflowers. She taught numerous classes and workshops throughout Texas over her 55-year career. She has had her artwork displayed in galleries all around Texas and the Southwest.

Although the size of her paintings and other creative art had to become smaller over her latter career, the impact of her colors and perspective remained huge. She said her only regret was that she did not have the foresight to catalog all her art, which she estimates to be over two thousand pieces. She was just interested in painting and then painting some more. 

Loveta was preceded in death by her parents, husband of 54 years, her sister Fern Bates, and brothers J.C. Moore Jr, and Batsell Moore. She is survived by her brother Burney Moore and wife Mary of Eugene, Or. She is also survived by her four children, son Dale and wife Elaine, daughter Verona and husband Claude Parker, son Galen, and son Dana and wife Retha all of Waco. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great-grandchildren.  Loveta was also survived by many devoted nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

The family wishes to thank Interim Healthcare for their nearly 3-year hospice care. Special appreciation and great affection go to her faithful caregivers Rose Bravo, Janie Contreras, Sharon Chandler, and Ieshia Lair. 

The family would appreciate any contributions to Christian Relief Fund, Brother Otto of Mexico, Rickey Strickland ministries (The family can provide details) or to a charity of your choice.