John Day Holland III, 71, Madison, Alabama was called home to the Lord on September 3 rd , 2026. Born on March 11 th , 1955, to Ingaborg Stein and John Holland Jr, John lived much of his young life in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
After losing his mother early in life, John moved to Kwajalein, a small island in the Pacific Ocean, with his sister, Peg, and brother-in-law, Tom. Following his graduation from Kwajalein Atoll High School, John joined the U.S. Army in 1976, where he served as a medic in Stuttgart, Germany. After several years of service, John returned to the states to begin his college career at Northern Arizona University, studying Computer Science.
After graduation, John and his family moved to Huntsville, Alabama where he began his career. Working more than 32 years in the field, John built a successful career as an engineer, specializing in missile defense. His work on several challenging projects brought him back to Kwajalein, a place he loved and often called home. He retired in 2018 after many years of dedicated service.
When not working, John was an avid fisherman, enjoying long summer weekends on Weiss Lake with his family and close friends. He also enjoyed hiking, mountain biking, and being with his wife, family, and dogs. He looked forward to visits to his favorite vacation spot, St. George Island, Florida, where he enjoyed long days in the sun and the natural beauty of the beach.
John had personality that was larger than life. He had a powerful presence and infectious laugh. He could be stubborn at times but was gifted in making others feel like their thoughts and opinions mattered. More than anything he loved to tell jokes and make others smile.
He is preceded in death by his mother, father, and sisters, Chris and Patty.
A loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather, he is survived by his wife, Toby; sister, Peg; children, J.D. (April), Jamie (Anna), Laura (Ross), Nick, and Graeme, as well as many grandchildren that lovingly referred to him as G-Daddy.
John will be missed by so many. Throughout his life, John had unwavering faith. His family takes comfort knowing he held tight to his beliefs all the days of his life and is now at peace. The family will be holding a private service.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timonthy 4:7
“And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” – Psalm 23:6
“Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” – Luke 23:42
