THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, April 28, 1996 TAG: 9604280039
SECTION: LOCAL PAGE: B6 EDITION: FINAL
DATELINE: VIRGINIA BEACH LENGTH: Medium: 59 lines
Dr. Floyd Bernard Holley, 80, of 5405 Compton Circle, died Wednesday, April 24, 1996, at his residence.
Dr. Holley's early years were marked by the academic achievement and excellence that would continue throughout his life. He was a native of Hertford and attended the Hertford schools, graduating high school as the valedictorian of his class. He received a bachelor of arts degree from Shaw University, a masters of science from Columbia University and a doctorate of Education from New York University.
Dr. Holley worked for over five decades in the areas of education, psychology, social work and human relations. He had been professionally associated with numerous educational institutions such as the New York Board of Education. From 1969 to 1979, Dr. Holley served as academic dean and the first appointed vice chancellor of academic affairs for Elizabeth City State University in Elizabeth City. He also taught in New York City, Martin County and Hertford.
During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army in both the United States and the Pacific. He also attended Officer's Training School in Australia. Throughout his life, Dr. Holley was an active supporter and champion of human rights. His life was dedicated to improving the lives of others regardless of age, gender, race and life status. His dedication to improving the community and the lives of others led to his founding such civic organizations as the Inter-Faith Community Association of Sneads Ferry, of which he was the first president. The list of his professional and civic affiliations are too numerous to mention. The following are just a few of his accomplishments: life membership in NAACP; awarded the Longleaf Award, the highest award to be given to any citizen by the governor of North Carolina; honorary doctorate of laws from Elizabeth City State University; named professor emeritus at Elizabeth City State University; and was a member of Delta Iota Chapter of Omega Phi Si Fraternity, Inc.
Dr. Holley's life most importantly was made available to and used by God. He was not only a sincere man of God, but a servant of God. He graciously, generously and unselfishly gave his talents, wisdom, time and other resources to both the church and individuals. He was a supportive and lifelong member of First Baptist Church in Hertford, a former member and trustee of Mother A.M.E. Zion Church in New York City, and a Pastor's Aid Stewart, and active and supportive member of Little Zion A.M.E. Zion Church in Sneads Ferry. His committed support of others and the Kingdom resulted in his receiving many honors from man and numerous blessings from God.
He was the widower of Margaret Hardison and son of the late John W. and Lucille Turpin Holley.
Survivors include a daughter, Attorney Margaret Holley Earls; a son-in-law, Phillip Earls; two granddaughters, Helen and Elizabeth Earls; two sisters-in-law; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A funeral will be held today at 2 p.m. in Little Zion A.M.E. Zion Church in Sneads Ferry. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. McIver's Funeral Home of Jacksonville is in charge of arrangements.
KEYWORDS: DEATH OBITUARY by CNB