October 20, 2025, 89, Goldsboro —
George Rand Holland, 89, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, October 20, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. George Rand was born in Johnston County on September 6, 1936, to the late Aaron and Gladys Holland. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Jeff Holland, and brothers, Charles Holland and Elbert Holland.
George Rand lived a life deeply rooted in faith, hard work, and devotion to those he loved. For 43 years, he was employed as a tobacconist with Philip Morris before continuing his career and later retiring from Universal Leaf in 1999. His dedication to his work was matched only by his steadfast love for his family and his church.
A faithful member of Union Grove Original Free Will Baptist Church, George Rand served as a deacon and lived out his faith daily through his humility, kindness, and servant’s heart. His unwavering belief in the Lord was the foundation upon which he built his life, a guiding light for his family, and the legacy he leaves behind.
Family was the heart of George Rand’s world. Whether gathered around the table, working together, or sharing quiet moments, he found his greatest joy in time spent with those he loved most. He also found peace and simple joy in God’s creation, especially while watching the bluebirds and cardinals visit his bird feeders—moments that reminded him of the beauty and faithfulness of the world God made. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving daddy, and a proud Pa and Great-Pa whose presence brought warmth and strength to his family.
The family will receive friends on Friday, October 24, 2025 from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home followed by a service to celebrate George Rand’s life at 4:00 p.m. in the chapel. Interment will be in Evergreen Memorial Cemetery.
Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife of 67 years, Donna Morris Holland; daughters, Paula Rhodes and husband, Robby, and Misty Coerver and husband, Chris; grandchildren, Austin Coerver and wife, Morgan and Cassidy Peeden and husband, Austin; and his precious great-grandsons, Calvin Coerver and William Peeden.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Gentiva Hospice for their compassionate care during George Rand’s decline in health, and especially to his nurse, Ashley Jones, for her kindness and dedication.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his memory to the Free Will Baptist Children’s Home, P.O. Box 249, Middlesex, NC 27557, or to the University of Mount Olive, 634 Henderson Street, Mount Olive, NC 28365.
Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
