John E. Holley

John Edward Holley was born on May 10, 1917 in Hertford, North Carolina. He went home to be with the Lord on Monday, April 21, 2014, at Life Care at Lofland Park in Seaford, Delaware, at the age of 96. His parents, John H. and Mattie H. Holley preceded him in death. Five sisters: Annie Bell Pettaway, Alice Combs, Creecy Mae Seymore, Lucinda Seymore, and Mattie Banks also preceded him in death. His Wife, Esther Holley, and son, John Rhodes preceded him in death as well. John is survived by his son, Furman L. Sessoms (Joyce) of Laurel, DE; brothers, Elder William Holley (Ellen), of Seaford, DE; and Clarence Holley of Hertford, North Carolina; 2 grandsons, 2 granddaughters, 4 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great granddaughter; a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives, all of whom he held dear and loved with his whole heart. John, also known as “John Ed,” “Pop,” and “Uncle Edward,” was a tall strong man who spent his life providing for his family. He understood hard labor and often talked about his experiences growing up during hard times under slavery rule. He had a compassion for people and helped those in his community whenever he could. When John chose to surrender his life to the Lord, he was elevated to “Deacon” and served faithfully under the leadership of Elder Johnnie Banks, Pastor of Solid Rock Holiness Church of the Apostolic Faith, in Milton, DE. He was baptized on January 7, 1977. A man of strong, unwavering faith, Deacon Holley will always be remembered for sharing the gospel on any given opportunity. Although he did not complete a formal education, God taught him to read the bible and helped him to get an understanding of the Word of God. As the leader of the family, God empowered him with wisdom in order to provide wise counsel to his family. He has never looked back. Some of his favorite things included: reading the bible (John 14:1-4; 6 was his favorite scripture); and caring for his garden and livestock when he was physically able to do so. John enjoyed the beauty and simplicity of nature. He quietly and patiently took the time to appreciate all of God’s creation. He will be greatly missed. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John E. Holley, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

John E. Holley

May 10, 1917 - April 21, 2014