November 27, 2025, 78, Kenly —

Harvey Clinton Holland, Jr. passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 27, 2025 surrounded by his loving wife and children. Harvey was born on May 26, 1947 in Weehawken, NJ to Alice and Harvey Holland, Sr. He spent his childhood on the family farm in Kenly with his four sisters, Judy, Nancy, Joan, and Laura. He grew up helping on the farm, working at his father’s service station, and spending time with his cousin and childhood best friend, Rudy Outland.

Harvey attended East Carolina University where he earned an undergraduate degree in business and master’s degree in education. He began his 30+ year teaching career at Saratoga Central High School and then spent many years teaching business at Beddingfield High School.

In 1973, a blind date with Cathy Allen marked the beginning of a new and lasting chapter of love and commitment. Harvey and Cathy were married at Buckhorn Methodist Church on June 9, 1974. Two children, Jason and Gina, completed their family over the next few years. Harvey was a wonderful husband and father and would playfully remind his children that we are “rich in love” when they envied some material item possessed by others. He understood what is truly valuable in this life.

Harvey always stepped up to the plate when a volunteer was needed. He spent his years coaching countless sports teams, volunteering his time in the community and at his church. He is someone who could always be counted on to show up when a job needed to be done.

A great source of happiness in his later years were his three grandchildren, Jeallen Holland, Nathan Skinner and William Skinner. Harvey rarely missed any sporting event, play or recital in which one of them was participating. To say he was their biggest fan would be an understatement.

Harvey’s mark on this world was deep and enduring. He was generous, humble, kind, and funny. He was slow to anger and quick to forgive. He was a problem solver, a handyman and a true friend. He had a servant’s heart and spent his life being the hands and feet of Christ in his community.

Left to treasure his memory are his loving wife of 51 years, Cathy Holland, his children; Jason Holland (Jennie) and Gina Skinner (Neil); three grandchildren, Jeallen Holland, Nathan Skinner and William Skinner; four sisters, Judy Batts (Bob), Nancy Johnson (Dallas), Joan Driver (Garland), Laura Thornton (Joe); and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

A service to celebrate this wonderful life will be held at Buckhorn Methodist Church on Sunday, November 30th at 2pm. The family will receive friends after the service in the Fellowship Hall.

Flowers are welcome or consider donations to Buckhorn Methodist Church in Harvey’s memory. Send donations to: Linda Ringer, Attn: BMC Memorial Fund, 5291 NC HWY 222 W, Kenly, NC 27542