Annie Strickling, a beloved teacher from Neosho, Missouri, has died after a shooting in Joplin. She was 28 years old. Annie passed away on January 4, 2026, at a hospital in Joplin.
Annie taught at RISE Elementary School and previously at Carver Elementary. She was a gifted art teacher known for her warm smile and love for her students. Parents say she made every child feel special and safe. Her classroom was a joyful place filled with art and laughter.
Colleagues remember Annie as a kind and patient mentor. She had a rare gift for lifting people’s spirits. Tributes from the community describe her as a bright light who touched many lives.
Although her life was short, Annie’s kindness and passion for teaching will always be remembered in Neosho and beyond.
