Velma Imogene (Jean) May Holland, 87, was born May 12, 1931, in Bedford, VA. Her parents were Jack and Lena May. She grew up in Virginia and married her husband, Bob, in 1954. She, her husband and her daughter moved to Raleigh in 1966.
Jean loved to take care of family, friends and her little Maltese. She was loyal and devoted to those she cared about. Jean spent many weekends in Virginia helping to care for her parents as they grew older. She was a tireless caregiver for her deceased husband, Bob, through a lengthy illness. A wonderful cook, she frequently made pound cakes or other baked goods to help someone celebrate or feel better.
With an eye for beauty and attention to details, Jean loved to create handiwork. Over the years she made countless items to share with family and friends. She made jewelry, wove baskets, and knitted and crocheted scarves, afghans and other pieces.
Jean worked for the Wake County School System for many years, starting as a substitute teacher and secretary, and later moving to the central office. She enjoyed helping teachers and administrators with certification and other matters.
She is survived by her daughter Josephine Deyo (Kevin), granddaughter Vivian Deyo and grandson Sean Deyo of Tallahassee, FL. She is also survived by her brother Ishmael May (Grace) of North Port, FL; nephews and nieces Michael May (Darleen) of Houston ,TX, Kathryn Shea (Steve) of Owings Mills, MD, Richard May of Waldorf, MD, Jacqueline Frye (Tim) of Bel Air, MD; her brother Richard Meador (Judy) of Richmond, VA; and other members of her family.
The family expresses gratitude to her dear friends Cindy Blackmon and Frances Riley for their caring assistance. Jean’s little dog Chrissy will miss her very much.
Although flowers are welcome, those who wish to honor Jean Holland may make a memorial to the American Heart Association or the Alzheimer’s Association.
