Holley was a friend who brought light into any room she entered. While I was technically her Pastor, it was Holley who most often ministered to me, lifting my spirits with her God-given gift of humor. It was obvious that Holley's time as a "Doughnut Dolly" in Vietnam carved deep memories she could never forget. She was created for that role and the soldiers she met along the way were blessed with her joyous spirit at a time when they needed it most. Knowing Holley was part of our Verona community, that her sharp wit would keep me in line when I needed it most, that she was a living reminder of how important it is to be there for others when life is at its hardest... knowing all this was a precious gift to me in my last few years as a pastor called to share God's good news. May she shine in heaven forever.... Retired Pastor Bob Weeks, Verona UMC

A BURST OF LIGHT
  by Barbara Kenyon

I wonder about things gone, 
about the universe collapsing, 
about human life and how
the universe must one day die.
And yet before that happens,
before the universe unwinding, 
we try to stretch one more 
moment, and when that last 
moment is really gone 
does the traveler, my friend 
on her journey to wherever, 
hear ambient music, 
lilting calls of a bright red songbird? 
Or is there a visual vibration, 
a burst of light, 
sparkling snow crystals,
or simply je ne sais quoi 
(something that cannot be described) 
like airwave voices – 
NPR companions – like 
mews and cries of countless 
cats and kittens, like curled 
steam escaping from mugs 
of coffee thick with cream, 
like the smell of homemade 
apple pie, cinnamon and nutmeg 
sprinkled on flaky crust.
I’ll miss the timbre of her voice, 
her phone call chatter 
as her grandfather clock tolls 
the quarter hour, 
tolls her days away, 
carrying her closer to peace.
I wonder about things gone, 
about her leaving, 
and about my grief.


I had the honor of working with Holley at WMRA. Her energy, enthusiasm, and fundraising experience were critical in helping rebuild and expand the station.  Holley was passionate about life, her children, animals, her experience in Vietnam, and many other causes.  Holley was a bright light in the world, a force of nature, and a wonderful colleague.  My thoughts are with her family and friends as they grieve her loss.

Our dear Holley will be missed in this world, which needs more cheerful, kind, generous, caring people like her.  As colleagues, I always knew I could count on her for honesty, creativity, and determination.  I learned a lot from Holley, and appreciate the value she contributed to WMRA and to the community around her.

Holley, we will miss you.  Your upbeat effervescent spirit, warm outgoing personality, and generous nature will be remembered.
All that you contributed to the world, from Vietnam to WMRA, will be valued.  Yours was a life to be celebrated.

In 1989 my little family moved to a duplex in Harrisonburg Va. My spouse was in a graduate program at JMU  and with toddler in tow and one in my belly, our family literally became 'connected' to the most amazing woman.  The day we moved in, a silver haired angel met us with her famous healthy cookies, made with 'cottage cheese.' This periwinkle wearing lady with the 1000Watts smile became known as 'my Holley'.
My boys watched a lot of public TV because that was the channel that had the most children's programs. During fundraising campaigns for the station, her mega smile would light the screen while my boys waved and yelled their hellos. We moved around alot, but remained family for 30 years with my Holley. She was always present in our lives with visits, cards, phone calls and love.
Fast forward 2008, back to JMU came two brothers. The first week of school, they opened the door of their dorm room to cookies and the comfort of dear Holley.
She was home away from home.
May you rest in peace my Holley and know that you were cherished here on earth for all of the wonderful love you shared with so many of us. I feel sure that Jesus is welcoming you home for a life well lived in the service of others and for the many batches of healthy cookies that you so joyfully shared. Hope to see you again one day dear friend.  Love, love, Ruthless 




I’m so sorry to hear about Holley.  I worked with her for many years at WMRA, and even after she left, she would occasionally call to check in.  I had not seen her recently but remember her as a bright, energetic personality.  She will be missed. 

We learned to know Holly from church a sweet and witty lady you blessed so many hearts Rest In Peace Jim and Doris Long

My heart aches.  Holley was such a wonderful friend, a beautiful poet and a very special person.  Remember with fondness our time at The Wall, and Rolling Thunder Memorial Day Weekend 2010, and exploring Virgina country roads that weekend as well.  May the stars shine brighter because of your life and may your voice be heard in the universe forever.  In Peace, Penni -- Donut Dollie 70-71 Vietnam.

Holley was a wonderful person with a great wit and dazzling smile! She will surely be missed by many of us!

Dear Holley,
You said all the things I wanted to say in all the best ways! You so well represented all of the Donut Dollies. You made me so proud to have been one of you.
I know you will regale them all in Heaven with your beautiful words and your Donut Dolly smile!
Thank you for your service.
Nancy Caracciolo Warner 

It is with sadness that I heard about Holley's passing.  She was a close and dear friend that went too soon.  Her greatest gift to the soldiers that knew her was her gift of accepting each of us and always saying something positive.  Her writings touched your heart and her speeches at the Women's Memorial at the Vietnam Wall impacted so many of us.  I am so glad that I got to know you Holley, I miss you dear friend.  I can just wonder what kind of mischief that Emily and you will start together.  

Holley was a wonderfully kind and caring woman, a gifted writer and above all,  a Donut Dollie. She was loved by many and will be missed by many more. Rest in peace, Sweet Lady.

OBITUARIO

Jean Holley Watts

29 octubre, 1944 – 2 enero, 2023

Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes & Crematory

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