Melford Douglas "Dutch" Holland

Melford Douglas Holland passed away peacefully in his home on March 14, 2024. He was born and raised in Indianapolis. Born of the union of Warden Adolphus and Laura Geralene Holland, he was the eldest of seven children Judith, Sharon, Janice, Leslie, Kenneth, and Sherry. Melford was fondly known as “Dutch” by his friends. He attended Indiana Public Schools, Crispus Attucks High School and graduated from Shortridge High School, class of 1957.

On September 4th, 1957, Melford enlisted in the United States Navy. During his 28 years of service, he would travel the world from Singapore to Lebanon, Italy to Japan. Melford became a Master Naval Parachutist while stationed at Seeley Naval Air Facility in El Centro, California. On December 15, 1967, Melford married Pearl Wilson and together they would raise five children in Ventura County, California While continuing to serve his country and actively parenting his children, Melford attended evening college courses and, in 1981, earned his bachelor of arts degree in Business Management from the University of Laverne. Melford became a black belt in martial arts and taught numerous children, including his own, the art of Judo, which translates as the gentle way. Among his many military commendations, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Antarctica Service Medal and Vietnam Services Medal. Enlisting at 17 years old, Melford's discipline, determination and dedication would eventually propel him to the highest rank achievable by an enlisted serviceman. Melford would retire from the Navy as the Command Master Chief of the Point Mugu Naval Air Station.

Melford was extremely devoted to his family and friends. He made it a point to attend every family event possible. He was a great listener and often gave advice when he felt guidance was needed. He enjoyed spending time with his children, siblings, nieces and nephews and friends. He found great joy in buying gifts for his family members. His other hobbies included traveling, cooking, collecting coins, art and electronics, taking care of his home, listening to music and audiobooks, playing golf and watching football and basketball. He loved football! He also supported the Nature Conservancy and The Special Olympics.

He is survived by his children Courtney Holland, Stacy Holland, Margie Holland Mathews (Philip), Timothy Holland and Fairy Delores Devereaux. Grandchildren Joshua Holland, Jonah Mathews, Jordan Mathews, Julien Jenkins, Julian August (Monique) and Jasmine Holland, great-grandchildren Mayhlayshia Jenkins and Ziyah August and siblings Judith Ann Johnson, Mary Sharon Holland, Leslie Jean Taylor and Linda Diane Holland as well as several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews, and his long - time partner and fiancé Kathryn Peoples, LTC US Army(ret).

He is preceded in death by his parents Warden Adolphus Holland and Laura Geralene Holland, siblings Kenneth Leon Holland, Sr., Sherry Lynn Mason, Janice Yvonne Young, niece, Rachelle L. Bigsbee, nephew, Kenneth Leon Holland, Jr. and grandson, Jeremy Christopher Jenkins.

A visitation for Melford will be held Saturday, April 6, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Crown Hill Funeral Home, 700 W. 38th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208, followed by a celebration of life at 12:00 PM.

Melford will be laid to rest in Crown Hill Cemetery, 700 W 38th St, Indianapolis, IN 46208.