Edward J. Holly

Edward James Holly of Stony Point, NY passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on June 2, 2025.

He was 85 years old. Eddie was born in Manhattan on June 19, 1939, to Maurice and Dorothy (née Driscoll) Holly. He was the beloved husband of Ann Marie Holly (née Culhane) for 62 amazing years. A devoted father to his four daughters and doting grandfather to his seven grandchildren.

Growing up in the Inwood section of Manhattan, Eddie was embraced by his large Irish family. Whether it was a weekend gathering in the city or summers spent in the Atlantic Highlands, there was always a reason to celebrate life together.

He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, with deployments that took him to Japan and the Philippines. Upon his return, he became an ironworker, contributing to the construction of iconic New York City landmarks like the World Trade Center and the George Washington Bridge. He would later work in sales for a lithographic company and served as a New York City policeman.

In 1962, Eddie married the love of his life, Ann at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church in Inwood. As their family grew, they moved to Rockland County, where they raised their daughters and built a wonderful life. As the original girl dad, Eddie possessed a beautiful blend of strength and tenderness. He was an incredible teacher who wholeheartedly championed his daughter's passions. He was equally thrilled when they shared his enthusiasm for football, boxing, and golf. He adored his grandchildren and cultivated a unique bond with each one of them. He was a special patriarch, absolutely one of a kind.

Big Ed, as he was affectionately known, was truly a larger than life presence. He was blessed with a mathematical mind and remarkable memory. A natural storyteller, he could captivate any audience with ease, and his sharp wit and delivery were legendary. 

After moving up from the city, Eddie was fortunate to find the Haverstraw Elks, which provided the opportunity to socialize and give back to his new community. It is there that he found lifelong friends, along with a gorgeous view of the Hudson.

Eddie treasured family vacations to Long Beach Island, the Catskills and many trips to Disney World. Beyond family trips, he enjoyed his travels with friends, from exploring Ireland to relaxing in the Caribbean, creating lasting memories along the way. He also liked spending time at the Parkway Beach Club and barbecues at Bowline on Holly Hill. He would eventually create his own backyard oasis where countless happy memories were made around his pool. 

Eddie's life could be characterized by hard work, unwavering discipline, and most importantly, love. The years we had with him were a privilege, and his absence will be deeply felt. His guidance, strength, and love were the foundation upon which our family thrived. He will be profoundly missed.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Marie Holly (Culhane), and his four devoted daughters: Renee (Joseph Lavelli), Marie McNamara, Kathleen (Thomas Gannon), and Jeanne (Brian Mullen). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Tara (Niall Freeman), Holly (Anthony Lavelli Musco), Kelcie, Rebecca, Eddie, Connor, and Danny. Eddie is also survived by his sister, Geraldine Neary, and sisters-in-law, Mary Jeanne Holly and Iris Culhane. He was predeceased by his parents, Maurice and Dorothy Holly, his brothers, Maurice, Daniel and James Holly, his brothers-in-law, John Culhane and William Neary, and his son-in-law, Thomas McNamara.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on June 6, 2025, at Immaculate Conception Church in Stony Point at 10:00. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation on June 5, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Michael J. Higgins Funeral Home, located at 321 Main Street, New City, NY 10956.