Edward Holland Jr., a distinguished veteran and beloved family member, passed away peacefully at home at the age of 98. Born in Liberty Hill, Texas, in 1927, he dedicated a significant portion of his life to military service and family, leaving behind a rich legacy.
At just 16 years old, in 1943, Edward enlisted in the US Navy during World War II. He served on a floating drydock in the South Pacific until the war concluded in 1945. Once he returned to San Antonio, Texas, he completed his high school education and went on to join the US Air Force in 1947. His first posting was at the Pentagon, where he worked in data processing. It was during this time that he met his first wife, Mary Anna Jane Hunter, with whom he would have three children: Jan Creed, Beth Ann Burdick, and Bruce Holland.
Edward’s military career was marked by success, culminating in his retirement in 1964. Following his service, he transitioned into civilian life, working in California and later at Cornell University in New York as a database administrator. His dedication to community extended beyond his professional life; he was an active member of the Los Angeles Harbor Lodge No. 332 and the Point Fermin Chapter 512 of the Order of the Eastern Star (O.E.S.). A dedicated member of the Masons for over 50 years, Edward served as the Worshipful Master in 1977 and was appointed Worthy Patron of the Eastern Star Chapter nine times.
After the passing of his first wife, Mary, in 1982, Edward found companionship with Laurel Holland, whom he met at an Eastern Star meeting. They married in 1984 and enjoyed a fulfilling retirement together for the next 41 years. At the time of his death, Edward was the patriarch of a five-generation family.
His survivors include his wife, Laurel, daughters Jan Creed and Beth Ann Burdick, and son Bruce Holland. He also leaves behind grandchildren Charissa (husband Seth) Franklin, Kyle Holland, Joel Holland, Courtney Burdick, and Bryanna Burdick, as well as great-grandchildren Kaylee Holland, Kyler Holland, Conner Franklin, Ethan Kline, Oliver Austin, Anthony Holland (wife Alexis), and Seth Holland. The family also welcomes two great-great-grandchildren, Anthony Holland Junior and Addlyn Holland.
Services to honor Edward Holland Jr. will take place at Green Hills Mortuary, located at 27501 S. Western Avenue, Rancho Palos Verdes, California. A visitation is scheduled for October 23, 2025, from 16:00 to 20:00, followed by a funeral service on October 24, 2025, at 11:30. Friends and family will gather to celebrate his life and the profound impact he had on all who knew him.
