Obituary

Willie Jeffrey Holland, A.K.A “Dawul”, was born August 2, 1956
in North Carolina to Willie Holland, and Melva Ann Toon also
affectionately known as Ms. Melvina or Lady. After moving to New
York City, Ms. Melvina raised Willie in a loving home with his
siblings, 2 brothers and 1 sister.
He attended Sarah J. Hale High School in Brooklyn, NY, worked in
construction early on, but would later further his education by
receiving his HVAC certification from APEX, as he had a special
talent for fixing things. Willie spent many years self employed as a
truck driver and delivery person with his then best friend Thomas
Bowen and they both could be seen many a day sitting in their work
van on Baltic or Bond streets in Gowanus Projects unwinding after
a honest day’s work. He was retired at the time of his transcendence.
Willie was a kind, caring and compassionate person, who while
unique in his ways and ideas, loud and opinionated, would still look
out for those in need. Some of his favorite pastimes were spades,
Chess, listening to music, reading books and oh how he loved his
PlayStation...LOL
Although his life was not without adversity, Willie continued to
persevere and overcome many of the challenges and obstacles that
life brought his way. Even during his last days he maintained his
unique sense of humor. He was predeceased by sibling Tyrone “Boo
Boo” Holland, and nephew DJ (Darrin Jr.)
He leaves to mourn his son Ronald Herron, Daughter Adrian
Rodwell, companion and friend Carolyn Reid, Sister Berlane
Holland, Brother Darrin Elijah Holland, nephew Lavell Holland,
nieces Jasmine Simone Johnson and Daniella Carter, three Aunts,
two Uncles and many cousins in Raleigh and Durham North
Carolina.
Jeffrey you will always be loved, missed and never forgotten. Rest in Peace.