Hollis Jacobs Kelly, Evansville, Indiana, age 81, went home to Heaven surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday, February 2, 2022. Hollis was born on June 2, 1940 in Pembroke, NC. She was the daughter of the late James and Mary (Hammond) Jacobs. Hollis graduated from Hopewell High School in 1958 and continued her education with Vocational training. Hollis worked for the City of Evansville for over 30 years and she was a valuable asset to all her co-workers.
Hollis was a Native American Indian and a proud member of The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. Her family moved to Hopewell, VA where Hollis attended school. Hollis enjoyed ancestry research, crocheting, reading, puzzles, games and vacations with her children. She was an avid volunteer with The Salvation Army and dedicated much of her personal time working with their Toy Town Program for over 30 years.
Hollis married Wallace Kelly January 25, 1965 in Washington, D.C. he preceded her in death in 1986.
She is survived by her children Amanda Kelly of Evansville, Rebecca Armbruster (Carl) of St. Louis, Mo, Catherine Howland (Dale) of Evansville, Mary Kelly (Dennis) of Tucson, AZ and her precious son James Kelly (Our Jim) who preceded her in death at the age of 5 in 1975.
She is also survived by the grandchildren she loved so very much Jacob (Jenny), Brianna (Zack), Maddison (Steven), Cortlynn, Seth, and Aidan and the great grandchildren that brought her so much joy Roman, Cameron, and Kohen.
Also surviving are siblings Ron Jacobs (Marie) of California, Lynn Strickland of Evansville, Indiana and Elizabeth Crabtree (Donald) of Virginia and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to her parents, husband and son, Hollis was preceded in death by her brothers George Jacobs and James Jacobs and her sister Kathryn Sutton.
We take comfort in this time of pain in knowing that our Mom was greeted by a host of family, her precious son, as well as her fur babies Bella, Rosie and Jasper when she arrived at the Gates of Heaven.
Per Hollis’ wishes there will be no funeral service, a memorial service will be held at a later date with burial with her son Jim.
If you would like to honor our Mother, in lieu of flowers, please send a donation to The Salvation Army Toy Town Fund, a local Animal Shelter or Rescue, or the National Kidney Foundation in her name.
Simple Cremation Evansville is entrusted with care.
Mary Langlois says
Mary, Sorry for your loss. She sounds like a wonderful person.
Kelly Yarde says
It hurts my heart to hear of Hollis’ passing. She was an instrumental part for years at Evansville Animal Care and Control, and I learned a large amount of knowledge from her. Rest on Hollis and my thoughts and prayers to the family. 😥
Heather McDaniel says
I always learned a lot from working with Hollis. She will be greatly missed. Rest easy Hollis!
Susan Harp says
Hollis always made us laugh when we did gardening work or other things at Animal Care and Control. You could always count on Hollis to keep everyone in line and on the right track. Prayers for the family.
Adrienne McDowell says
I was saddened to hear of Hollis passing, we miss her greatly at Animal Control!! Hollis you are at peace now and you can over us at Animal Control. Prayers to the family ❤️❤️
Jon Miller says
Those miles have separated us for years now. Knowing this precious lady has been one of my earthly trophies. Til we meet again. 🌹
Denise Woodall says
Catherine, we are so sorry to hear of your mom’s passing! Didn’t know her well, but I remember she did scare me a little! (Haha). I know how much you loved her! Didn’t know she was from this area in NC near us! You’re in our prayers! Denise and Joe
Vanessa Turpin says
So sorry to hear of Hollis’ passing. I will always remember reading my stories to her on the way home after church when my grandma was taking people home in the church van 🙏 my prayers to you and the family
Alex Rahman says
I’m so sorry Catherine…Hollis served at The Salvation Army for years and her impact here was great. We won’t fully know just how great until we get to the other side. Everyone here sends their love and prayers…
Sandra Turner says
Dear Family of Hollis,
I am so sorry that I did not hear of Hollis passing until just now. She was a wonderful woman and soldier of God, that will be missed greatly by all who knew her. We pray that others will carry on where she left off and continue the legacy. Blessings to each of you. Love, Mark and Sandra Turner, Majors