Mrs. Lessie B. Holland

Ward Wilson Funeral Home and Crematory

Viewed: 476

Posted by: Ward Wilson
Date: Dec 03 2024 11:00 AM

Lessie B. Holland, left this world peacefully on December 2, 2024, at the age of 86. Born on January 31, 1938, Lessie’s life was a tapestry of loving relationships and heartfelt passions that touched all of her family and friends.

Lessie’s journey began as the cherished daughter of Leslie Butler and Pearl Kornegay. She grew up alongside her siblings, forging bonds and memories that would last a lifetime. She was preceded in death by he first husband and father of their children, John Willis Braswell and her parents and siblings Linda Mayes, Raddie Russell, Frances Pynes, Evelyn Trawick, S L Hobbs, Joe Neal Butler, and Bonnie Louise Hobbs. Her sister Annie Shepard remains the only living sister of all the siblings.

Throughout her life, Lessie’s sassy and spunky spirit was a light that drew others to her. It was this same vivacious energy that captured the heart of her beloved husband, Jerry Holland. Her surviving children Steve Braswell (Daphne), Felicia Smith (Lamar), and John Braswell (Shannon) loved her immensely. Lessie’s role as a mother was one that she cherished deeply, nurturing her children with the same spirited love that defined her.

Lessie was very proud of her grandchildren Steven Braswell (April), Michelle Smith, Duston Braswell (Danielle), Nicholas Braswell, Lindsey Biggs (Will), Caleb Braswell (Alexis), and Hannah Braswell. She delighted in their growth and achievements, and her nine great-grandchildren brought her immeasurable joy. Each child was a thread in the beautiful quilt of her life, and she wrapped them all in affection.

A woman of many talents, Lessie’s hands were rarely still. Her sewing machine hummed as she crafted infant and children’s clothes with meticulous care. She loved to bake during the holidays and her 14-layer chocolate cake was the favorite of many family members.. Lessie enjoyed planting seasonal flowers and potted plants around her home each year. She labored in love with her yard and shrubs and was very proud in the spring when her azaleas were in full bloom.

Each Thanksgiving and Christmas at the Holland home was a feast for all who attended. Cooking holiday meals was an act of love, and she poured her heart into every dish. Her large family gathered around the table during the holidays looking forward to all of the home cooked dishes that she had perfected over the years.

Lessie’s strong will was matched only by her loving spirit. She was never shy about sharing her thoughts, and giving advice to loved ones from life lessons she had learned. Her generosity knew no bounds, and she gave of herself freely, whether through her time, her talents, or her unwavering support.

As we bid farewell to Lessie B. Holland, we celebrate a life lived with a drive and passion. Her loving and spirited nature will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Lessie’s memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories passed down through generations, in the azaleas that bloom each spring, and in the hearts of all her family who will miss her dearly. Her legacy is one of love, laughter, and the enduring strength of family.

Funeral services celebrating Lessie’s life will be held at 3 PM, Wednesday, December 4, 2024 from the chapel of Ward Wilson Funeral Home with Pastor Joe Holland officiating. The family will receive friends from 1 PM until 3 PM, prior to the service at the funeral home.

The family would like to express gratitude for the care given to Lessie by the staff of Gentiva Hospice and Mabel, her caregiver during her final week of her life.

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