Princeola Holley

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith, I held on until my Master called my name, and I answered, Yes, Lord, I’m coming home to receive my crown of life. Mother Princeola Holley, our dear mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, was summoned by God Almighty to enter eternal rest on the evening of February 16, 2025, at Maryview Hospital in Portsmouth, Virginia. As she was affectionately called, Mom Prince was born on May 25, 1951, to the Late Mr. Walter James and the Late Mrs. Vadie Holley. She was reared and raised in the Ida Barbour section of Portsmouth. She attended and graduated from Portsmouth Public Schools. After that, she attended Keys Business College, where she studied Nursing (CNA). Mom Prince loved caring for others; she was a home health caregiver. She would take care of anyone and everyone. Her dedication to those she cared for and her family does not go unnoticed and is appreciated by many. Princeola was predeceased by her parents, Mr and Mrs. Walter and Vadie Holley; her grandson- Little Walter James Holley; her niece, Demetria (Dee-Dee) Holley; and her nephew, Samuel Spud Holley. Mother Princeola was not just a matriarch to her family but to her entire community. She was known for her kindness, generosity, and most notably, her unwavering faith that served as a guiding light for many. While living in Lincoln Park, she started the first Sunday School for children and was a beacon of hope, helping and evangelizing anyone with whom she came in contact. She opened her home to many and fed whomever. Her generosity knew no bounds, and she made everyone feel like a part of her extended family. In the late 80s, Princeola found her spiritual home when she joined the United Full Gospel Revival Center Int’l Ministries. Under the leadership of then-Pastor, now Apostle Olivia D. Sharp, she gave her heart to Christ. Her faith remained unwavering under the pastorates of the Late Apostle Dallas Ellis, Sr. and now current undershepherd- Sr. Pastor Janet B. Ellis, until God called her home. Mother Princeola loved the Lord. She beautifully and continuously served until her health failed her. She served faithfully and fervently in this ministry for over 40 years. She was a remarkable and dedicated servant of the Lord who greatly loved God, His Leaders, and His people. Mom Prince was very loyal and committed and had an undying love for her natural and spiritual family. Mother Princeola leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. She is survived by her daughter, Sylvia “Peaches” Holley; four beautiful granddaughters, Jaquesha “KeeKee” Holley, Marketta “Ketta” Holley (Demetrian), LaMarsha Holley, and Bonshea (Shea) Holley, all of Portsmouth; and her nine precious great-grandbabies. Her love extended to her sister, Juanita Toxey, and brother, Albert “Rabbit” Holley; a special niece- Lynnell Toxey; nieces, nephews, and special friends; and her Revival Center Church Family. Her love for family was a source of warmth and comfort for all who knew her. Always remember that the race is not given to the swift nor the strong but to the one who endures until the end.

Princeola Holley

May 25, 1951 - February 16, 2025