Edna Holland

Edna (Green) Holland was born on January 7, 1950, at Harlem Hospital in New York City, to Lula Mae Green and Henry Green. Raised in Jamaica, Queens, Edna lived a life grounded in love, faith, family, and togetherness. She was a devoted mother, wife, grandmother, sister, and friend whose vibrant spirit, generous heart, and unwavering love for her family will forever be remembered.

From an early age, Edna’s mother instilled in her the sacred importance of family. As a child, Edna discovered her love for music and developed an extraordinary talent as a vocalist. Classically trained in opera, she and her sister were often invited to perform at their mother’s social gatherings. Her remarkable voice eventually afforded her the opportunity to sing at Carnegie Hall, where she also had the memorable experience of meeting Jackie Robinson.

Upon graduating from John Adams High School, Edna followed in her sister’s footsteps and pursued a career in mental health services. She dedicated her working years to caring for others at Creedmoor Hospital, bringing the same warmth, compassion, and kindness to her profession that she so freely shared with her family. Her commitment to justice extended beyond her professional work, as she also participated in community organizing efforts to challenge food manufacturers whose products harmed communities of color.

Edna later moved to Augusta, Georgia, where she met and married her beloved late husband, Roosevelt Holland. Their shared love of music became one of the great joys of their lives. Roosevelt, a talented keyboardist, and Edna spent countless cherished moments performing together at local restaurants and jazz clubs, creating beautiful memories through their music. Their partnership also extended to community service, as Edna introduced Roosevelt to her organizing work through the Citizens Against Violence Ministry in Valdosta, Georgia.

Throughout her life, Edna was a steadfast supporter of her family, always encouraging her children and grandchildren to pursue their dreams, no matter how ambitious. She made it her mission to be present for every performance, award ceremony, sporting event, and graduation. Nothing could keep her from showing up for the people she loved. Her life was guided by one simple but powerful belief, which she instilled in generations to come: family always comes first. This was especially evident in her love for her grandchildren, whom she would remind everyone "Don't mess with Grandma’s babies “ she cherished them fiercely, defended wholeheartedly, and would do anything to protect. Through every season and every challenge, she never lost sight of the bonds that kept her family close.

Family gatherings were among Edna’s greatest treasures, especially Thanksgiving, when cherished recipes, the aroma of her famous cornbread stuffing, jambalaya, and collard greens, laughter, stories, music and memories filled the home. For Edna, having everyone together was a blessing. These moments were more than traditions; they were expressions of the love she worked so hard to nurture and preserve within her family.

In April of this year, Edna joined Decatur Seventh-day Adventist Church in Georgia, where she rededicated her life to Christ and was baptized, reaffirming her faith and deep love for God. She will be remembered for her energetic spirit, outgoing personality, extensive knowledge of history, infectious humor, and unmistakable friendliness. Her presence was powerful, and her personality unforgettable. She embodied the strength, determination, and perseverance often associated with her Capricorn spirit. Throughout her life, she worked hard, faced adversity with courage, and continued moving forward even when circumstances were difficult. Yet, her greatest strength was not simply in what she endured, but in the love she continued to give, the encouragement she offered, and the lives she touched along the way.

Edna leaves to cherish her memory her children, MacArthur, Samantha, and Amelia; her beloved grandchildren, Taiqwan, Yaadam, Leah, Brandon, Trinity (Lil Trin), and her two great-grandchildren, Lara and William. She also leaves behind her grandson-in-law, Tony Marsielle, and granddaughter-in-law, Krystal Watson, along with a host of nieces, extended family members, dear friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known and loved her.

She is reunited in heaven with her beloved mother, Lula Mae Green; her father, Henry Green; her son, Trinity Wright; and her devoted husband, Roosevelt Holland.

Though her absence will be deeply felt, her love will remain present in the lessons she taught, the traditions she created, the recipes she shared, the laughter she inspired, and the countless memories she leaves behind. Her voice may be quiet now, but the love she planted in her family will continue to speak for her.

Her life was a reminder that family is a blessing, love is a legacy, laughter is a gift, and the memories we create together can carry us through a lifetime.

May she rest peacefully in God's loving arms.

A memorial service will be held at the Keeney and Basford Funeral Homes, 106 East Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701, on Saturday November 7th at 2pm. Interment will be held privately by the family.