Barbara Holly

Barbara Joan (Sharitt) Holly passed into the arms of Jesus Christ, her Lord and Savior on May 14, 2026. She was long preceded in death by her parents Louis and Dorothy Sharitt. Barb was born in Detroit on November 30, 1935 and was largely raised by her father. She benefited greatly from the guidance and discipline of a wise and loving father to whom she meant more than anything else in the world.

School years were at Litchfield Public School where Barb was a good student, well-liked by both her teachers and classmates. She was a member of 4-H and a cheerleader in high school. She graduated in 1953 and went on to Lansing Community College.

Barb’s moral character was recognized and respected by all who knew her. She developed a strong work ethic early in life and by adulthood had become an intelligent, conscientious and reliable young woman. She became a valued employee at Grosvenor Bank in Jonesville and later at the Manufacturer’s National Bank in downtown Detroit. On April 19, 1959 she married Lawrence “Ed” Holly, a Michigan State Police Trooper at the Jonesville Post. After living for a time in Hillsdale, they later resided in Flint, Traverse City, Erie, East Lansing, Lansing, Lakeview and again in Traverse City. Following retirement, they relocated to Kingsley. Having worked for many companies, her favorite job was private secretary to the Deputy Comptroller at the Chevrolet V-8 engine plant in Flint.

Barb was loved and respected by many including several nieces and nephews who always addressed her as Aunt Barb. Many long-time friends were scattered about the state. Her greatest admirer and lover was Ed, her husband of 66 years who often described her as the finest person he ever knew. He preceded her in death in 2025.

Barb was always a faithful member of her church, particularly at Faith Reformed Church where they were long time members. She sincerely enjoyed the communion of saints and donated many hours to church activities. She also volunteered at various charitable organizations like Love INC, Right to Life and Meals on Wheels. Her favorite activities were oil painting, ceramic work, tennis and 17 years of dancing with the Traverse City Tappers.

The funeral will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at 11:00 am with visitation beginning one hour prior at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions in her honor may be directed to Hospice of Michigan.