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Charles Holley Obituary

Charles S. Holley
BIRMINGHAM, AL - Charles Summerall Holley died peacefully on Ash Wednesday, March 1, 2017, in Birmingham, Alabama, with his adoring family by his side.
Born on January 17, 1949, Charles was endowed with an unquenchable devotion to family. We celebrate and rejoice in his reunion with his mother Rebecca Goldfinch Holley and his father, Ferrell Lafayette Holley, Sr., as well as three cherished grandsons who preceded him in death.
A 1967 graduate of Aiken High School, he received his degree from his beloved Wofford College in 1971 and married the love of his life, Kirby Hains Croft, that year. Soon after, he was blessed with two daughters, Dorothy "Dora" Hains Holley Hogg (Bryan) and Ann Summerall Holley Phillips (Caleb).
Through his life, Charles was rarely happier than when enjoying a little mischief or sharing a tall tale. He relished his childhood memories of the Goldfinch Cottage at Cherry Grove Beach, nickel pinball games at Sonny's Pavilion, crabbing in the marshes and tidal pools nearby, and later throwing himself into his role as "Chief," first for the Indian Princesses and then for his grandsons. He channeled every ounce of himself and his spirit into his wife, his friends, his daughters, his beloved grandchildren, his parents and siblings, his farm, his garden, and his songs. Nothing was halfway and he never focused on himself. His spirit flowed to others.
Music and laughter were the background of his life. From his days growing up, playing horns for the Intruders band while in high school, and learning to shag to his favorite beach music all around Ocean Drive and the Grand Strand, there was always a smile on his face, a rhythm in the air, and a dance on the tip of his toes.
That boundless spirit had never been confined within his own body. It had always dwelled out among the people - with his wife and daughters, his brother and sister, with all of his friends, and with every person he met. He lived, he loved, and he rejoiced in people. Their joy was his ecstasy. Their triumphs were his celebrations. Their tragedies were his sadness. Their smiles were his fulfillment.
It was Charles' ability to give himself back to us that was his great gift and his life's passion. We treasure the time we had with him and we rejoice in the knowledge that his limitless spirit and boundless energy survive. He, who loved family so completely, can now share himself, and his spirit, and be "Chief" to those most dear who preceded him.
Charles is survived by his wife and two daughters as well as his brother, Ferrell L. "Larry" Holley, Jr., his sister Sarah Holley Guida (Steve), and two grandsons, James Mercer Hogg and Charles Summerall Hogg. Charles was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection where he served on church council and as president of the congregation. He was also a member of the Augusta Country Club and a former member of the Martinez-Evans Rotary Club and Belle Meade Hunt in Thomson, Georgia.
The family will welcome friends and guests from 4:00 - 6:00 pm on Sunday, March 5, 2017, at the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, 825 Greene Street, Augusta, GA, and with a memorial celebration on Monday, March 6, 2017, at noon with Rev. David B. Hunter, Sr., officiating. Remains will be privately interred at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any gifts or memorials be made to the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Aiken Standard and North Augusta Star from Mar. 4 to Mar. 6, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Holley

Not sure what to say?





Virginia Jackson-Pownell

February 27, 2020

Dear Kirby, I instantly thought of Charles yesterday, 2/26/2020, since it was Ash Wednesday. I will never forget his devotion to his family and to his Church Family, and could wish that my own sibling will be remembered in the same way. Lots of prayers to you and family. Psalms 27

Kay Biermann-Brohl

March 2, 2018

Kirby, was so sad to hear this news. My son, DJ, went to Augusta Prep with Ann Summerall. Charles was a wonderful person that made everyone that he met feel better about themselves. We celebrate having known this happy, generous gentleman.

Charles White

July 10, 2017

Kirby,
I was shocked to hear of Charles's passing from the Wofford magazine delivered today. I always considered him to be a good friend from the day we entered Wofford in 1967 and throughout the years. While doing my fellowship at MCG in the 1970s, I would bump into fairly frequently. I truly enjoyed those times. He was a pleasant ,sincere individual. I especially remember the last little party at Homecoming at Wofford a few years ago. He never changed through the years which was a good thing. Please accept my condolences
Charlie
Charles White,MD

Mary Margaret Hutchins

July 1, 2017

Kirby,

I was searching for a recipe of my grandmother and found an old address book with your address. Curious, I decided to google you. I found Charles' obituary. I am so sorry for your loss. The obituary was lovely, describing perfectly the Charles I remember meeting and knowing almost 50 years ago. I regret that we lost touch and that it has taken his death for me to let you know that I have thought about you often over the years. I hope you are doing as well as possible.

With love and sympathy,
Mary Margaret Murphy Hutchins

June 1, 2017

I am sorry for your loss. I am just hearing of Charles's passing. Our family has fond childhood memories of your living across the street from us on Pennsylvania Avenue. He was always generous with his time and loved gardening and piddling in the yard. He was a good man and it is comforting to know that he continued to have a loving and strong family, faith and friends throughout his life. I hope for you continued comfort with the help of your faith, family and friends. As a daughter, I experienced the sudden loss of our dad in November 2011. Betty Herrell and family.

March 12, 2017

So sorry for Kirby &a the family. We keep you in our prayers. Charles was a grea t gentleman. Glen. & Christie

Pam Johnson

March 11, 2017

Dear Holley Family:
Charles and I were classmates, every post I've read speaks of the love people felt for this wonderful man. He was the most fun, the most handsome, had the best sense of humor, smart as a whip, and oh so sweet, Charles had it ALL that's why people loved him - you just couldn't help it. My parents loved his parents and they grew up together. Good people passing the love on to others just like God planned it. God bless you all during this difficult time and into your healing.
Pam Johnson

March 8, 2017

Dearest Kirby:
I have just received the news of Charles passing....
He touched my life in such a special way.
As I entered the business world approximately 40 some years ago, Charles was my manager.... Such integrity, love, business skills and much about life he taught me. I owe all my success to Charles Holley he gave me the confidence I needed to be successful.
Though I have lost contact with you over the years, I remember so fondly when you lived on Ohio or Pennsylvia Ave. right across from my wedding Chapel on Wrightsboro Rd. Everytime I have passed there I have thought of you and Charles and your little girls. My Father, Fleming Love and his wife Carol thought the world of Charles and your family and always spoke so highly of him...I SHARE YOU GRIEF!!!!Betty Love

Chris Caver

March 7, 2017

Shared some time with Charles when we both worked at Voc Rehab in Aiken... He had such an engaging way to make you feel comfortable ... Accepting and friendly to all that he met...

Bill Bassham

March 6, 2017

Kirby and family,
Lynn and I were saddened to learn of Charles' passing. What a wonderful man's life you have to celebrate. We pray for you doing this difficult tile and wish you God's peace.

Shane Dunlap

March 6, 2017

Kirby and Family,
Saddened by your loss, Charles was a good man and one-of-a-kind. Regarding his obituary, Truer words could not have been spoken. He was not only passionate in his desire to help others, but could find the best in them as well. As my Mom so eloquently said, "He was the Pied Piper of Cherry Grove." Never forget the times he would rally up the kids and head towards the marsh, with the multitude in tow. He found real joy having us along and with mud between his toes. Don't ever think that he will be forgotten, as he will live forever in our hearts and thought. Condolences to all.

March 6, 2017

May the powerful words recorded in the Bible at Matthew 5:4 encourage and strengthen your saddened heart.

Steve Goldfinch

March 6, 2017

Kirby, Larry, Sarah and Family, I am so sad today and we are thinking of you and family. I remember the days in Cherry Grove and I guess the thing that I remember most is the smile that brightened the entire room as he walked in. This world is a better place because of Charles. We send our Love.

Ray Diamond Glass

March 6, 2017

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family in this time of sorrow.

Billie Hamilton Allen

March 5, 2017

Kirby and family, I am so sorry to hear about Charles. The world should never have to lose someone as special as him. He was a wonderful person in every way. I know your hearts are breaking. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Jacqueline Mertins

March 5, 2017

Charles will surely be missed by all at Resurrection Lutheran Church..Kirby and family you are in our prayers.

Randy Metz

March 5, 2017

Kirby I want to offer my sympathies to you and the girls. I have some great memories with Charles at the Belle Meade Hunt, drinking a little Port Wine and cutting up with my children! He was a true Southern Gentleman and a great friend to many.

William, Linnie, & Blair McCutcheon

March 5, 2017

Kirby,Larry,Sarah, and family, I am still in shock over the news of Charles. His smile was always contagious and his heart was as big as the Moon. Our hearts are broken, but our fond memories will last for ever. All of you remain in our thoughts and prayers.

March 5, 2017

My sincere sympathy to Sarah and Larry and their
family. Charles always had a smile on his face and
a kind heart. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Debby Jones Buchert

March 5, 2017

Kirby, how sorry we are about Charles. Please know we share your grief and you and the girls are in our thoughts and prayers. Jane and Gene Neal

Georgia Gary

March 5, 2017

Georgia Gary sends here grief and sorrow. He was much admired and loved l

Kay Murphree

March 5, 2017

Dear Kirby, and Family, Don and I were so saddened by the news of Charles' passing. Please accept our heartfelt sympathy, love, and prayers as you go through the coming days. Charles will forever be etched in my heart. My highschool friend, Charles and I worked together in real estate , with his warm smile and quick laugher....such a gentleman, you will be so missed..All our love...Kay Alexander Murphree

Ginny Jackson-Pownell

March 5, 2017

Dearest Kirby, Larry, and Sarah, I am in shock and disbelief of the passing of fondly, "Uncle Chuck." Both of our families have always been there for each other all of our lives. There is an invisible path paved with gold between 339 Horry St. and 702 Colleton Avenue. In all humility, I am honored to have known Charles and become an "adopted" member of The Holley Family. I wish I had had the pleasure of meeting Dora and Ann Summerall, and I send to both of them and their families an abundance of prayers, in this their time of need, and the same to all of you. His spirit knew no boundaries, to all who had the privilege of knowing him. I cherish all the times we spent together, and I know that there is a beautiful reunion going on now in Heaven. My love and prayers to you all.

Psalm 27; John 3:16

Lundy

March 4, 2017

SDennis

Gwen Fulcher Young

March 4, 2017

Charles and I so often talked about going in business together over our 40 year friendship. He was without a doubt the nicest person I have ever known. His great love and devotion to you, Kirby, and his girls was evident in every conversation we ever had. My heart breaks for all of us because a truly good man is no longer present...

Clair & Barbara Henkes

March 4, 2017

So sorry to hear about Charles. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Gary Pressnell

March 4, 2017

Shocked and saddened to learn of the loss of Charles. My condolences to his wife and daughters and my prayers for all.

Keith Crosswhite

March 4, 2017

I'm so very sorry to read of the loss of Charles. I will be praying for you as you go through this difficult time.
Keith Crosswhite ( Sarah's friend from high school)

Melvyn Haas

March 4, 2017

Kirby--so sorry to hear of Charles' death. Our best to you and the girls, Love, Joyce and Mel.

Joe Baxter

March 4, 2017

I wish I could be as joyful as Charles.

AHS Band, Class of '67, Wofford

Kim Beavers

March 4, 2017

Kirby and family, The Beavers family is still experiencing a little bit of disbelief. Our hearts are broken for the loss of such a man and they are also broken as we imagine your grief. However we also feel blessed to have known Charles and have him impact not just us but also our children. Certainly his gifts to us all continue in the form of cherished memories. You have our sympathy and our prayers. Much love ~ The Beavers

March 4, 2017

Kirby , I would loved to have known your wonderful husband .
Take care of yourself and know that you have many many dear friends praying and loving you .
Ann Williamson

Brenda Findlay

March 4, 2017

Was sadden today to learn of the passing your best friend and husband as well as a high school classmate. Charles lived a full & loving life. No words can ease the pain, but do know that we are all children of God. We put our faith in him to guide us through the dark days; renewed in his word and strength. Be comforted in the love that surrounds you and memories you cherish to give you peace. James and Brenda (Magness) Findlay

March 4, 2017

Charles was honestly the nicest guy I ever met. Always a joy playing with him in the Intruders. We will sure miss him...
John Gardner

Johnny Johnson

March 4, 2017

I was shocked to hear of Charles's passing. My condolences to the Family.

Elizabeth Clark

March 4, 2017

Kirby, Dora and Ann Summerall, We are heartbroken for your loss. Charles' beautiful obituary is a testament to what an enormous gift he was to those who knew him. My childhood memories are filled with his storytelling, energy and love for his family and friends. Our prayers are with you all.

Elizabeth, Keith, Owen and Grier Clark

Kathy McNeill

March 4, 2017

Kirby and the Holley Family, it is such sadness to know that Charles has passed. My sincere sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the coming days.

Catherine Luckey

March 4, 2017

Kirby and girls, I am so sorry for your loss. All your friends are here for comfort and support. What a special guy. We shall all miss, Charlie, Catherine Wier Luckey

Bud & Lydia Weisser

March 4, 2017

Dear Kirby: Our condolences on the sad news of Charles' death. We will always recall his smiles and the warm welcomes he offered when we have visited back at Resurrection. God Bless!

Mary Welborn Pierce

March 4, 2017

Dearest Kirby, Dora, and Anna Summerall, I have no words. My heart is aching and I truly feel your loss. The news of Charles passing away is hard to believe. Oh, my goodness, I loved him so much as a dear friend. My mind is flooded with so many fond memories. I will always remember "Carolina Shagging" with your precious Charles. "Rainy Day Bells" immediately comes to my mind. Sharing dinners in the old days with ya'll and Billy D. Guess he and Charles will have fun reminiscing in Heaven together. What a fun time we had going to Cherry Grove way back when! Wonderful, wonderful memories. Charles had the greatest smile, too. Everything about him was just extra special. I am so sorry that I will not be able to get back to Augusta for the funeral. Please know that you all are in my prayers now and forever. Thank you for sharing Charles with us all. A true Gentleman, dear friend, devoted husband, loving Father and Grandfather, too. Just a few attributes that come to mind. Am so glad that I have my memories of Charles. It helps to ease the pain of his loss. May God Bless You Kirby. And, your girls, too. My Deepest and Heartfelt Sympathy. Love,, Mary Welborn

Jane Hall Harmon

March 4, 2017

Dearest Kirby, Dora and Ann Summerall, so terribly sad to learn of your loss. The beautifully written obituary says it all. Charles was a man who smiled and shared happiness always. His wonderful personality and sincere interest in others will not be forgotten. My condolences to the entire family.

bill barton

March 4, 2017

dear Kirby, so sorry for your loss. Larry was in Houston working at the Johnson Space Center and we had lunch together. later he called me with the shocking news. i offer my sincere condolences. God bless.

Ralph, Melanie & Gini Blake Nichols

March 3, 2017

Oh how we love this man. A light in our lives that will be forever missed. He adored this life and made each soul in His path love it as well, with a hopeful and joyful spirit. He was like a father to us and an endearing grandfather to our daughter. Always lifting others to see Gods blessings in everything. It has been an honor to be his friend and I thank God for crossing our paths so many years ago.

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