Norma Violet Holladay

She was born in Memphis, Tennessee, September 17, 1941, to Violet and William Curtis Cowan, who preceded her in death. She had one brother, Bill Cowan, who also preceded her in death. Early on, Norma found her passion for music through the alto saxophone, and participated in her high school marching band and played in the school dance band all four years, as well as participated in the ROTC Army band and played in the Cotton Bowl with the Marine Band. She lettered in volleyball in high school and was shortstop for her local women’s softball team.

She attended Ambassador College from 1959, where she was recognized as a leader early on, acted as a dorm monitor, and participated on the student council. This is where she met Roy Holladay, whom she married shortly after graduation, leading to 63 years of marriage. She was mother to five boys - Arthur, David, Ted, Craig, and Mark - and grandmother to thirteen. She was much loved and respected by everyone who knew her as she strove to set an example of a godly, serving woman. She dedicated her life to being a mother and supporting Roy in the ministry for 63 years. She had a special ability to make others feel seen and loved. For years, she would make a point of writing cards and letters on a daily basis for everyone she knew - many thousands of cards were ultimately sent acknowledging birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and prayer requests - a service of love that had a wide impact on many people around the world.

While our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that she lived a full and blessed life and passed peacefully with family around her. We are grateful for the many years, memories, and blessings we shared with her. We take great comfort in God’s plan and that we will see her again.

A celebration of life service will be held at 3:00 pm, on Sunday, August 16, 2026, in the Chattanooga Funeral Home, Valley View Chapel, with Victor Kubik officiating.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at the funeral home prior to the service.

Please share your thoughts and memories online at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com

Arrangements by Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, Valley View Chapel, 7414 Old Lee Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37421.