Wilbur Holland, Jr.

With love, gratitude, and cherished memories, we celebrate the life of Wilbur Holland, Jr., who peacefully departed this life at his home in Suffolk, Virginia, on July 19, 2026, at the age of 79.

Wilbur was born on May 13, 1947, in Suffolk, Virginia, to the late Wilbur Holland, Sr. and Maggie Holland. As the youngest child in the family, he was raised with the values of faith, integrity, hard work, and compassion that guided him throughout his life.

A proud graduate of Booker T. Washington High School, Class of 1965, Wilbur excelled both academically and athletically, playing basketball during his high school years. After graduation, he honorably served his country in the United States Air Force as an Air Policeman. Upon completing his military service, he continued his education at Tidewater Community College, where he earned an associate degree.

Wilbur devoted 35 years of distinguished service to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), retiring in 2005 as a Construction Inspector A. He took great pride in his work and was respected for his professionalism, dedication, and commitment to excellence.

Wilbur accepted Christ at an early age and remained a faithful member of First Baptist Church Mahan Street. His faith was the cornerstone of his life and a source of strength for all who knew him. As a faithful member of the church, he served on the Usher Board, was an active participant in The Mahan Baseball Team (1984), The Brotherhood Ministry, and faithfully served in the Volunteer Ministry, where he found joy in serving God, supporting his church family, and helping others.

A man who believed in giving back, Wilbur served as a Tiler, with the Greater Suffolk Elks, was faithful member of the Suffolk Booster Club as both President and Accountant/Bookkeeper since (1970). He also passionately supported educational opportunities for young people and community scholarship efforts.

Wilbur was united in marriage to the love of his life, Ethel Laverne Holland, who preceded him in death. Together they built a life centered on love, faith, and family. Known for his warm heart and generous spirit, he loved opening his home to family and friends, creating lasting memories through fellowship and laughter.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories, his devoted daughter, Tamia Holland, of Suffolk, Virginia; his beloved granddaughter, Talia Copeland; and his special niece, Torian Johnson (Tony), of Petersburg, Virginia, who held a special place in his heart.

He also leaves to cherish in his memory his beloved nieces, Brionda Lewis and Isyss Lewis; his cherished great-grandchildren, Kylan Tester and Kyla Tester; his special great-nephews, Bryson Gholson and Chosen Lewis; and his special great-niece, Brielle Gholson.

He is also survived by his loving sister, Patricia Holland; his brother’s from another mother and lifelong friend’s, Charles Jackson and Reginald Bryant ; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and all whose lives were touched by his kindness.

Wilbur was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur Holland, Sr. and Maggie Holland; his beloved wife, Ethel Laverne Holland; and his sisters, Ella Louise Holland, Sheila Lassister, and Brenda Ann Holland.

Wilbur's life was defined by faithful service—to God, his country, his profession, his community, and his family. He will be remembered for his humility, generosity, quiet strength, and unwavering willingness to help others. His legacy of love, integrity, and service will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

A public viewing will be held 3-7pm,Thursday, August 6, 2026 in the Melvin J. Blowe Chapel of Crocker Funeral Home, Inc. A celebration of life will be held 12 Noon, Friday, August 7, 2026 at First Baptist Church Mahan. Mr. Holland will be laid to rest with military honors at 1:00pm, Monday, August 10, 2026 at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery. The family has entrusted Crocker Funeral Home with services rendered with dignity, compassion, and care.