Memories of John M Holland

"John was always ready to assist in any situation even as a child. Just like all the Holland family, he enjoyed sports,,,he was full of humor and a joy to be around. He rejoiced in the accomplishments of others.

Some time after our dear mother died, John sent me a letter that said he was relieved that the family had not drifted apart ....and he thanked me for assuming our mother's role in the family. We will miss him greatly, but we know that he is with our God in a better place."

Ella May Holland Davis, eldest sister

"John and I were very close growing up. When he was about 13 years old, he had a paper route and sometimes he would ask if I would like to come along. Well of course, I would always say yes. I always loved being with him. Once in a while he would have enough money to buy me a little treat like a bag of dried apricots.

Then when we got to high school, all the girls would come up and ask me about John....he was sooo good looking!"

Lewcile Holland Nolen, younger sister

"As a child, I always felt safe with my Dad. He was my "Knight in Shining Armor." The eternal optimist...I have always wanted to grow up to be like him."
Deborah Holland Dunford, daughter

"It tickles Dada when you kiss his neck. Dada loved sports, baseball, and Ranger games. He was always patient, and he would play with us whether he felt like it or not."

Jeffrey Williford, grandson

Uncle John was always one of my very favorite uncles. He was so sweet to us kids when we were little and played with us. I loved him very much.
Rosemary Embry, niece

We miss his smiling face and warm hugs on Sunday mornings. Thanks for sharing so much of his life...we really miss him.
Charlene & Gordon Ensley

I still miss my "world champion encourager".
Chris Dunford, son-in-law

He never forgot anyone’s birthday and always called. It was always a pleasure to be around him & he always had something funny, kind & loving to say.
Judy Davis Rose, niece

Being one of John's daughters was a great privilege. I consider him my greatest hero. The man you saw and knew as a friend was the same man at home with his family. He was happy and fun, always playing and joking around with me. I was his shadow...I followed him everywhere. I grew up knowing the special love that a father and daughter can have. I truly miss his hugs, he always made me feel safe...I tell people my Dad never met a stranger and I thank God my children knew him well.

Nancy Holland Williford, daughter

Dada was my grandfather, my hero, my friend and my biggest fan.

Dada was my grandfather, my hero, my friend & my biggest fan.
He truly was the “Daddy” that I never had.

I remember when I was little, walking around the house in his shoes.
They were way too big then.

I pray that God will allow me to fill those shoes now.

D. Kyle Holland
#1 Grandson

I remember when I was little, walking around the house in his shoes. They were way too big then.

I pray that God will allow me to fill those shoes now.
D. Kyle Holland
#1 Grandson