Obituary

James Richard Holland, affectionately known as Jay, passed away unexpectedly on February 5, 2025, at the age of 54. Jay was a dedicated father and brother, loyal friend, respected attorney, and passionate Tar Heel fan.

Born on May 6, 1970, Jay moved with his family to Belhaven, NC, in 1983 from Virginia. His early years were marked by hard work and commitment, working at Circle Grove Seed Farm, Hardee’s, and with the Belhaven Recreation Department. He was well known for his athletic achievements at John A. Wilkinson High School, especially on the baseball field, but it was his outstanding academic accomplishments that earned him a full Johnston Scholarship to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Jay worked as an athletic trainer for the UNC football team and earned a varsity letter when he graduated in 1992.

After a stint working in Texas after college, Jay returned to North Carolina and attended the UNC School of Law, graduating in 2002, with The Order of the Barristers. He balanced his demanding career with his love for fatherhood, coaching his three sons' baseball teams with the same enthusiasm and commitment he brought to his professional life. He found joy in fishing with his college buddies in the Outer Banks, as well as watching movies while researching legal briefs with a cat in his lap.

Jay is survived by his three sons, Samuel Merritt (22), Brent Windley (20), and Lawson Riddick (15), and their mother, Brandi Windley Cagle, all of Belhaven. He also leaves behind his sisters, Melita Holland and Dee Holland-Brock (Wanda), all of La Crosse, VA, and his aunts, Barbara Holland Scott and Pam Phillips (Jimmy), of Kingstree, SC, who was more like a sister to him. Jay was preceded in death by his parents, Furman Merritt and Janie “Polly” Faulkner Holland.

Jay's charm, humor, intellect and passion will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A memorial will be held at First Christian Church of Belhaven, 419 E. Main Street, on Sunday, March 2 at 2:00 pm. The eulogy will be given by Jay’s cousin, Clint McMakin. Memories will be shared by Jay’s close friend, Rodney Glass. All are invited and encouraged to wear Carolina blue in his honor. A visitation will immediately follow the service in the church fellowship hall. A private family burial will take place afterwards.

In lieu of flowers, you may feel free to donate to the charity of your choice that reminds you most of Jay.