Charles Dean Holley

Charles “Charlie” Holley, age 74, of Cypress, TX passed away on October 11, 2025, surrounded by the four women he held dearest, lovingly referred to as “his girls”: his wife, Jennifer Holley; his daughters, Monica Parrish, Natalie Holley, and Rechelle Thorne.

Born on June 17, 1951, in Corpus Christi, TX, Charlie was the child of Jack Doyle Holley and Daisy Dimple Birmingham and was the youngest of 5 siblings. Charlie’s life was a testament to his adventurous spirit, unwavering patriotism, and deep love for his family.

Charlie attended Waltrip High School in Houston, TX. On June 29, 1970, he enlisted in the United States Army. After completing basic training at Fort Ord, California, he was deployed to Vietnam, where he served with distinction during the Vietnam War.

Charlie attained the rank of Specialist (E-4) and was awarded numerous combat and service medals, including the Bronze Star and the Silver Star for acts of valor in the line of duty. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1972, having served with courage and distinction. His time in the military remained close to his heart and forged lifelong bonds of brotherhood.

Shortly after returning home, Charlie met and married Dollie Sue Russell. They were married on October 27, 1973, beginning a life together that would span 26 years. They welcomed their first daughter, Monica Holley, in 1976, followed by their second daughter, Natalie Holley, in 1980.

After his first marriage ended, Charlie was blessed to find love again with Jennifer Weise. They married on April 17, 2004, and shared a life together until his death. Through that union, he gained another beloved daughter, Rechelle Thorne (Davis).

Charlie graduated from the Houston Diving School and went on to become a commercial saturation deep-sea diver. His work took him around the world, diving in the waters of the North Sea, Campeche Bay in Mexico, and the Gulf of America.

He advanced his career as a professional Marine Salvage Master and later served as a Vessel Manager and Operations Manager for some of the world’s leading marine companies taking him to locations even further across the globe. Throughout his career, Charlie was highly respected among his peers and made many lasting friendships within the industry.

Charlie enjoyed a wide range of hobbies throughout his life. Early on, he played on a co-ed softball team and later found joy in coaching his daughters’ teams. He was a man who worked with his hands, building things with sweat, innovation and determination, even working as a carpenter for a time. He also had a love for motorcycles and enjoyed watching sports, particularly NASCAR and football. Charlie’s greatest passion, however, was the outdoors. He cherished time in nature, and hunting and fishing were lifelong pursuits. He especially loved sharing those experiences with youngsters, teaching them how to hunt and fish.

Charlie was a beloved husband, proud father, adored grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend — and to many, a true hero. He was also the life of the party and had a gift for bringing people together and making any moment memorable.

Charlie was preceded in death by his first wife, Dollie Sue Holley; his parents, Jack Holley and Daisy (Monte) Jordan; his brothers, Jack Doyle Holley Jr. and James Lee Holley; and his sister, Bobbie Jean Holley Baggett (Jerry).

Charlie is survived by his wife, Jennifer Marianne Weise Holley; his daughters, Monica Holley Parrish (Dustin), Natalie Rhae Holley, and Rechelle Ann Thorne (Jacob); his brother, Calvin Ray Holley (Marian); and his sister, Mary Anna Nix (David). He also leaves behind cherished grandchildren Jaxson Dean Thorne, Kaiden Thomas Thorne, and Clara Ann Parrish, as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Rest in peace, Charlie, until we meet again to share another laugh.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Kingwood Funeral Home, 22800 Highway 59 North, Kingwood, TX 77339.

Funeral service will take place Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at Kingwood Funeral Home, 22800 Highway 59 North, Kingwood, TX 77339.

Committal and burial will follow from 1:45 p.m. to 2:15p.m. at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038.

Reception to follow on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at EJ’s Place located at 16460 Kuykendahl Rd, Houston, TX 77068.

The family is deeply grateful for the love and support they’ve received during this time. In lieu of flowers, contributions toward Charlie’s funeral expenses would be greatly appreciated. Donations may be made through GoFundMe at https://gofund.me/c42f2cbbe .