John Edward Holland Sr.

John Edward Holland Sr. of Cleveland, AL died April 12, 2025. He was born on Dec. 14,1925.

At the age of 99, John passed away at UAB St. Vincent's Blount surrounded by family, friends, and a caring medical staff. John's declining mobility and overall health was the result of a fall on March 4 when he sustained multiple fractures.

John was an Army Bronze Star recipient during World War II while serving in the Asian Tour. After his service years, he worked as a tool and die maker and manager until retirement. 

John's greatest pleasure as a young man was music when he played the guitar and sang in a band on a Birmingham radio station. John shared his life with two remarkable ladies who always put him first in their life while enjoying grandchildren, singing, reading, sports, games, and crafts.

John was a lifetime member and served as Post Commander several times at the East Lake American Legion. He was an active member for many years at High Rock Methodist where he loved to sing and play the guitar. 

In his later years, you would more than likely find him hanging out with faithful friends who contributed so much to his life at the Locust Fork Community Center.

John was preceded in death by wives Betty Jo Holland and Linda Jean Holland; son Randy Holland; grandson David; great-grandson James; great-great-granddaughter Elizabeth; and six siblings.

John is survived by three children, John E. Holland Jr. (Doris)., Bonnie Rider, Curt Boling (Jessica); eight grandchildren, John E. Holland III, Nicholas Holland (Cheona), Rebecca Gilmore (Jonathan), Terry Settle (Kevin), Tricia Layton (James), Hannah Rider, Hope Rider, Haddon Rider; 18 great-grandchildren; 17 great-great-grandchildren; and sister Rosemary Holland.

A celebration of life will be held at High Rock Methodist Church in Hayden at 2 p.m. April 26, with Pastor Joel Johnson conducting.