SGM. Retired James Doyle Holland, Jr., US Army Special Forces, 81, a dedicated patriot, loving husband and father, of Lillington passed away Friday, October 22, 2021, at his home. He was born April 25, 1940, in Key West Florida where his father was stationed in the U.S. Navy. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1962 where he ultimately rose to the rank Of Sergeant Major, retiring in 1987, His orders sent him to Georgia, Ft. Bragg, Vietnam, Germany, Norway, France, Massachusetts, Campbell College ROTC instructor, Ft. Bragg, Somalia and back to Ft. Bragg, NC.  25 years of his service was with the U.S. Army Special Forces. Currently a member of Special Forces Association Chapter 1-18.  He is so proud of the progress they have made at their new location after having been flooded out by hurricane Matthew at the Doc Bennett Road location in 2016.  He made his last jump at 13,500 ft. for his 80th birthday.

After retirement, he opened a Sharpening Shop at his home sharpening everything from beautician's scissors to ditch witch blades. He always had a project or two in the works to be re-engineered or constructed. There was nothing that he couldn't fix. He loved traveling in their motorhome going from one side of the country to the other.

He was preceded in death by his father James Holland, Sr. and sister Sally Petit.  Survived by his wife of 57 years, Nancy, sons Jim of Coats, Mitch of Angier, two granddaughters Candice and Nancy Lynn and one great granddaughter Lorraine, brother Sam Holland (Francine) and sister Sharon Toppino (both of Florida), and several nieces and nephews. He was a good man who loved and took care of his family.

A graveside service will be held at Noon Friday, October 29, 2021, at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery in Spring Lake with military honors.
The Holland family would like to express their gratitude to all the staff of Community Homecare and Hospice for their care and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Disabled American Veterans, 520 Johnson St, Fayetteville, NC 28303.

In accordance with current North Carolina COVID-19 guidelines, the funeral home requests that everyone in attendance practice social distancing and wear a face covering.