Anthony Paine Holland's Obituary
Anthony P. Holland (Tony)
Dad passed away quietly the morning of 09/12/2023. He was born in Bexhill, Sussex, England 02/24/1936. He had a fascinating life from watching the Battle of Britain unfold in the sky’s above 1940s England to racing cars and flying his own airplane. He joined the RAF working as a mechanic and Motor fitter. He then went onto the traditional British apprenticeship program and became certified as an automotive mechanic. He took these skills and emigrated to Canada with the goal of coming to the United States. While in Canada he met, fell in love with and married the mother of his children. Marilyn A Flett. Together they moved to the United States and established a good life raising 2 sons Michael A Holland (Mike) and Frederic A Holland (Rick). To both of whom He passed on his amazing work ethic and mechanical skills. Always a high achiever he was recognized by British Leyland As a master mechanic working on all manner of British Sports cars. Later a move to Piedmont Airlines and becoming a GSE mechanic with them was the capstone of a long career working with his hands and putting his heart into his work.
Retirement never really took and he was constantly working. Maintaining his house restoring his beloved Austin Mini Cooper or regularly helping friends and neighbors repair their cars, tractors and Airplanes or mowing his grass. Caring for Marilyn in her later years until her passing after 50 plus years together he met another angel. Patricia Ann Phillips was an ardent supporter and good strong friend. The time she spent supporting and comforting blossomed to a new love and eventually marriage. Pat has been the partner and friend he needed and it is thanks to her that He was with us this long.
He is survived by his loving family; wife, Patricia Holland, children; Mike and Carol Holland, Rick and Anne Holland, grandchild, Michael James Holland, step children; Corry Phillips, Nick and Sparkle Owes, Emanuel Parks and Maurice Parks. As well as many beloved step grandchildren.
A celebration of Tony’s life will be held September 24, 2023 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at his
residence, 315 Airpark Drive, Mooresville, NC. All are welcome and encouraged to come
share memories and stories of a great man.
James Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.jamesfuneralhomelkn.com.
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