Robert Lee Holly, Sr.

Bob Holly, 76, of Canton, GA passed away on October 13, 2009 following a courageous battle with cancer. He passed away at the home of his daughter and son-in-law surrounded by his family and loved ones. Bob was born on February 2, 1933 in Cincinnatti, Ohio to William & Mary Holly the youngest of three boys. Bob attended Bond Hill elementary before moving with his family to Miami, FL in 1941. He attended Miami Edison Junior High and later graduated from Miami Technical High School where he earned varsity letters in football & baseball. Following graduation from high school, Bob worked at in the aviation services industry while simultaneously serving in the United States Air Force Reserve. After serving four years in the USAFR, Bob attended Stetson University in Deland, FL on a football scholarship. After two years at Stetson, Bob enlisted in the United States Army where he earned his parchutist’s wings before enrolling in the Special Forces eventually becoming one of the first members of the elite Green Berets. Following his military service, Bob returned to Stetson University where he served as president of the local chapter of the Sigma Nu fraternity and was awarded a degree in Business Administration. Following his graduation, Mr. Holly taught elementary school in South Florida prior to pursuing a career in the insurance industry. During this period, Bob became active in his church ministries and in 1972 he was ascended to the rank of “deacon” in his church. In 1974, he received his ordination into the ministry as a minister. Following his ordination, Mr. Holly earned his pilots license so that he could better travel and spread his ministry. While continuing his employment in the insurance industry Mr. Holly traveled throughout the United States and Canada continuing his ministerial work. In 1977 Mr. Holly and his family moved to Roswell, GA where he continued his career in the insurance industry. In 1995, he retired to his farm in Canton, GA where he pursued his life-long interest in old cars and motorcycles. During his retirement he continued his service to the Lord as a volunteer prison minister and homeless counselor. Mister Holly was preceded in death by his Mother and Father, the late William and Mary Holly, his brothers William and Charles Holly. He is survived by his children Loryn, Catherine, Robert Jr, his son in law Steve Peek & three grand children Michael, Ashley, Emily Peek and his spoiled rotten dogs Eli & Sparky. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Mr. Holly’s name to the American Cancer Society or the Disabled American Veterans. A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 16, 2009 at 11:00 am in the funeral home chapel. Inurnment will follow at Georgia National Cemetery. The Holly family will receive friends on Thursday from 6-8 pm at Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory, Roswell. 770-645-1414. www.northsidechapel.com

Robert Lee Holly, Sr.

February 3, 1933 - October 13, 2009