James L. Holley

JAMES LEWIS HOLLEY was born June 13, 1940 in Kelford, North Carolina to the late Lewis Holley and George McGlone. At the tender age of three years old his beloved mother passed away. His dad who was unable to care for such a small child alone requested the James sister Elizabeth raise him.

James was educated in the North Carolina School System. At the age of 19, he relocated to Baltimore, Maryland where he worked various jobs. For 46 years, he was employed by GAF Corporation until his retirement. Being the hard worker he was, James could not stay at home and went to work for Richard Swartz of Mano Swartz Furs. 

At an early age he became the proud father of six daughters and one son. His children were everything to him. They spent countless summers in the car driving down the country to visit family. James enjoyed spending time with his children and having conversations where he shared his life's wisdom.

Being the suave and debonair man he took pride in his wardrobe. It was nothing to see James at Gage's men's Clothing Store or any other high end men's shop. You never saw him dressed without a hat. 

James enjoyed dancing and oh boy could he dance. His love for dancing led him to the love of his life, Darlene on Mother's day , May 9, 1993. Being the persistent man he was, James asked Darlene to dance seven times before she finally agreed and the rest was history. On July 30, 1994 they danced down the aisle to become husband and wife. This union not only joined them but he gained another daughter and son.

James accepted Christ as his personal savior at an early age. He later rededicated his life to the Lord and joined Christ way Christian Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Quinton Herbert, Jr. He loved his pastor and on many occasions you could find them at IHOP sharing a meal and fellowshipping.

His favorite past times included listening to gospel music, watching sports and political news. He was also an avid chess player. If you put tools in his hand he could fix anything. James was a jack of all trades who had a passion for home improvement.

James leaves to cherish his memories: his loving and devoted wife Darlene Holley; children, Beverly Windley (Minister Fredrick Windley), Cheryl Nelson, Regina Holley, James Holley, Jr. (Jessie), Jamice Holley, Kathy Holley, Kianti Jacobs (Andrea), Antione Davis, Dara Ryan; children at heart, Michael and Rositta (Peachie) Jones; sister, Hazel Holley; brother, Horace Holley; sister-in-law, Connie Holley, Brenda Baylor, Rita Robinson and Angela Quarles; brother-in-law, Reverend Theodore D. Addison, Sr.; uncle, Joseph Eaddy; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; a special niece, Marvel Simpson; special friends, Sharon McCleod, Angelo and Dot White, Percy Clinton, Mary Parker-Collins, Coretha Corry.  

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