James Earnest Holland

In Loving Memory of A Devoted Father, Faithful Friend, and Cherished Community Member

James Earnest Holland peacefully transitioned from this life on Saturday, September 6, 2025, in Windsor, Virginia. Born on December 8, 1941, James lived a life defined by hard work, steadfast faith, and boundless love for his family and community.

James dedicated much of his career as a truck driver for Blackwater Trucking Co., where he was known for his diligence and reliability. Beyond the open road, he also contributed his labor to Smithfield Packing Company, Gwaltney of Smithfield, and Kirk Lumber, embodying a tireless work ethic and an unwavering commitment to supporting his loved ones.

James was a man of many passions. He found immense joy in singing with the Golden Keys, enriching those around him with the warmth of his voice. Music was a constant companion, and his favorite song, “Walk Around Heaven,” resonated deeply with his spirit. James also delighted in the simple pleasures of life—cooking delicious meals for family and friends and venturing into the woods for hunting excursions.

His faith was the cornerstone of his being. A devoted member of New Jones Groves Baptist Church, James sang in the Male Chorus and attended faithfully until his health no longer permitted. The church community was an extension of his family, and his presence there will be profoundly missed.

James was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Beatrice V. Holland; father, Charlie B. Holland; He was joined in Holy Matrimony Dec. 10, 1989 to Mary Baker Holland who pre deceased him, son-in-law, Levance L. Harrison; brother-in-law, Bunny Stringfield; sister, Dorothy Horton and her husband, Bill Horton.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and resilience, cherished by a large and devoted family:

• Son, James Earnest Holland Jr. and Monica Holland(1 grandchild)

• Son, Laren O. Holland and O’Teal Holland (6 grand-children, 5 great-grandchildren)

• Son, Terry D. Holland Sr. and Bernice F. Holland (12 grandchildren)

• Daughter, Desiree Holland (2 grandchildren, 4great-grandchildren)

• Daughter, Vanessa Harrison (2 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild)

• Daughter, Chonda Drew and Arthur Drew, Jr. (2 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren)

• Sister, Inez Hicks and John Hicks (3 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren)

• Daughter, Baretta Smith (1 grandchild, 4 great-grandchildren)

• Daughter, Tammy Holland Genzlinger (3 grandchildren)

• Godson, Randy Marvin Munford III

• Sisters, Mary Stringfield and Linda Baker

James’s memory will forever remain a source of comfort and inspiration for those who were privileged to know him. His songs, his laughter, his stories, and his steadfast love will echo in the hearts of all his family and friends.

May he walk around heaven all day, surrounded by peaceand the everlasting embrace of those who have gone before him.

On Tuesday, September 9, 2025 viewing will take place from 3-6pm at Shivers Funeral Chapel. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 11am a New Jones Grove Baptist Church, Windsor. Interment will follow in the Church Cemetery. Please keep the Holland family in your prayers.