Mr Steven Darrell Holland

DEACON STEVEN D. HOLLAND Through the years, I keep on toiling, Toiling through the storm and rain, Watching and patiently waiting, Until the Savior comes again. I'm coming, Lord, trusting in thy word, Keep me from the paths of sin, Hide me in thy love, write my name above, When the gates swing open, I'll walk in. On Saturday, July 8, 2023, God, in His infinite wisdom, beckoned our beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend to come from labor to rest. Deacon Steven D. Holland was born on December 21, 1962, to the late George and Bertha Holland in Newport News, VA. His name was put on the House of Prayer roll at birth, and here he received his Christian foundation, upbringing, and natural inclination for music. Steve attended Newport News public schools, graduating from Warwick High School in 1982. He developed a love for music in childhood, playing the baritone in 5th grade and advancing to 1st chair trombone in high school. It's only natural that the trombone would become his instrument of choice, which he loved. After all, he was born the son of the late George Holland, legendary trombone master, of the infamous Happyland Band. Not only did he receive the instrumental blessing of his father, but he also inherited a smooth baritone voice that bellowed hymns from deep within his soul. At a young age, a young girl caught his eye and piqued his interest. Although he was way too young at the time, it was something about her that would make him say "You're going to be my wife." Even though she thought "What?", she was flattered by his interest. And, this was the beginning of their love story. Their friendship blossomed, time passed, and Steve's dream became a reality. CoCo said "yes" to his request to be his wife, and they received the blessing of Daddy McCollough to marry on June 21, 1986. Before long there was the pitter-patter of little feet---four to be exact, with the birth of twin boys, Cleveland and Steven Jr. in 1988. They would later be joined by a sister, Stephanie, in 1989. "Big Steve," as he was affectionately called, was a devoted husband and father, always protective of his family. His stature shadowed a humble man with a gentle and quiet spirit, who was deeply loved by his family. Thirty-seven years, until his passing, Steve and CoCo walked as one and were meant to be! His early trade was a brick mason, and eventually, he found his passion in cooking. For some 30 years, Steve was a professional cook for the International House of Pancakes. His love for cooking was served at home for his family, on holiday time, and on special occasions. His favorite dish was good ole fried chicken, and he always looked forward to Thanksgiving with his family. As much as he enjoyed cooking, it was second to his passion for playing his horn in the House of Prayer bands. Once he became a deacon, his vocals would stir up the testimony service, or he would render a solo on the program. He created and taught music parts, mixed sounds, and made original melodies and songs. More than anything, we will miss Steve's gifted playing of the trombone; a sound that remains in our hearts forever. Steve was preceded in death by his parents, George and Bertha Holland; his brothers, Stanley Holland, and George (Sonny Boy) Holland, III; his sisters, Delores Lawrence, Edith Moss, and Valerie Holley. Left with many precious memories are: his wife, St. Coretha (CoCo) Holland of Newport News, VA; two sons, Cleveland Holland of Charlotte, NC and Steven Holland (Kelly) of Virginia Beach, VA; one daughter, Stephanie Garnett (Curtis) of Newport News, VA; mother-in-law, St. Joan Diggs; father-in-law, Elder Roy L. Carter; sisters, Denise Holland and Deborah Randall; brother, Donald Holland; aunts, Joycelyn Holland, Bertha Fentress, Daisy Thomas, Theresa Holland, and Shirley Holland; sister-in-law, Carolyn Holland; brothers-in-law, Elder Michael Carter, Johnathan Carter, and Apostle D. Holley; (7) grandchildren: Aubrianna, Zachariah, Nastasia, Elijah, Imari, Gabrielle, and Zaylee; and a host of other relatives and friends. A precious one from us is gone A voice we loved is stilled A place is vacant in our home, Which never can be filled. We love you, but God loves you best. THE FAMILY

Mr Steven Darrell Holland

December 21, 1962 - July 8, 2023