Eugene "Gene" Freeman Holland Sr.

NASHVILLE – Eugene “Gene” Freeman Holland, Sr., age 90, passed away on Monday, June 30, 2025.  Born in Nash County, NC on March 16, 1935, he was the son of the late Arthur Thomas “Bud” Holland and Pattie Lee Thorne Holland.  He was also preceded in death by his wife of 72 years, Eloise Jeffries “Weese” Holland; his four brothers; and his five sisters.

Gene was a man of deep faith, quiet strength, and steady devotion to both his family and the Lord.  A long-time member of Ebenezer Pentecostal Holiness Church, Gene served faithfully in numerous capacities, including as a deacon and Sunday School teacher.  He was known for his love of studying Scripture and regularly participated in men’s Bible studies, where he found joy in learning and growing alongside others.  Gene grew up on a family farm, where hard work became second nature.  He often shared memories of his father calling on him to pick up and straighten nails off the ground—an early lesson in diligence and responsibility that shaped the man he became.  Throughout his career, Gene remained connected to construction in one way or another, and he spent 33 years serving as a contract salesman for Sears.  He loved the mountains, traveling, and especially the simple joy of riding—whether through scenic landscapes or on family camping trips where building a fire and relaxing at the campground brought him peace.  He and Weese also enjoyed going on cruises with other couples during a special season of life.  More recently, Gene found spiritual fulfillment worshiping at Redeemer Church, surrounded by his beloved family.  Above all, Gene cherished time with those he loved.  His legacy is one of faithfulness, humility, and unwavering love for his Lord and Savior, his family, and the life he built alongside Weese.

Gene is survived by his sons, Eugene Freeman “Butch” Holland, Jr. and wife, Marilyn and Dean Avery Holland and wife, Susan; his grandchildren, Corrie Holland Gurganus (Elic), Seth Holland (Garrison), Morgan Williams (Ted), and Tyler Holland (Kristin); his great-grandchildren, Riley Williams, Rhett Gurganus, Levi Williams, Reinn Gurganus, Joshua Holland, and Sadie Holland; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Gene’s life will be held on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at 3:00 PM in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Dr. Dayton Hartman officiating.  Visitation with the family will immediately follow the service in the Atrium of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home until 5:00 PM.

A committal service will be held on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Forest Hill Cemetery in Nashville with Rev. Charles Gentry.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made in Gene’s memory to Redeemer Church, 940 N. Wesleyan Blvd, Rocky Mount, NC  27804.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.