Willie James Holly's Obituary
Willie James Holly, affectionately known to many as Sonny, was born March 9, 1940 in Covington, Tennessee to the late Guy Walter Holly Sr. and Lucille Terry Holly.
The fourth born of seven children, he grew up as part of a large family in Covington, where attended Mt. Carmel Elementary School and Frazier High School. He accepted Christ at an early age at Smith Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Brighton, Tennessee, laying a strong foundation for his life.
After graduating from high school, Willie moved to Washington, D.C. with his older brother, Hoover. There he met his first wife, the late Irma Jean Holly. They soon relocated to San Diego, California to pursue a better life and raise their five children: Debra Carter, Stephanie McNairy, Andre Holly, Aaron Holly and Bridget Holly.
He welcomed three additional children to the Holly family: Kathy Watson with his second wife, Dolores Watson; and Chris Acani and Reanne Acani, with wife Prescilla Holly, with whom he enjoyed many trips to the Philippines. Willie built a wonderful life surrounded by a large, loving family of his own that included 16 grandchildren: Allan, Aaron, Andre Jr., Ariel, Michael, Araini, Erykah, Kaylah, Dora, Damien, Brandon, Donovan, Zhaleya, Zhaniya, Ezra, and Kemmani; and seven great grandchildren. All remain to cherish his fond memories.
Willie was always full of life and ambition. He was quite the accomplished electrician and craftsman. After working various jobs, he landed a coveted position at the Naval Air Station North Island where he worked for more than 30 years, and in impressive fashion, rose through the ranks to General Foreman of Naval Operations Shore Support Unit. He supported three aircraft carriers, which he accompanied into the Gulf of Tonkin during the Vietnam War. Still, he made time to be an involved father as an active member of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and as Scoutmaster for his children and other boys in the community.
After leaving San Diego and spending some time in Barstow, he returned to enjoy retirement and time with his growing family. He is remembered for his kind and gentle heart, and the impact he made lives on the of others. He is remembered for being present, especially during big moments for his loved ones.
On April 30, 2022, Willie James was called home to rest in eternal peace. He was preceded in death by his parents, Guy and Lucille Holly, brothers Hoover and George Holly, and sisters, Theautry Hicks, Catherine Holly, and Mary Elizabeth Brown. Along with his wife, Prescilla, children, grandchildren and great grandchild, Willie is survived by his youngest brother, Guy, along with many nieces and nephews.
To our beloved Willie James “Sonny” Holly, rest in eternal peace.
“Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” Luke 23:43
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