Willie Elliott Holley Jr., 60, of Newark, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and closest friends, following a courageous battle with stage 4 pancreatic cancer.

He was born June 30, 1966, in Columbus to the late Pastor Willie and Reba (Gillespie) Holley Sr. Willie grew up deeply rooted in faith; he attended Fairview Baptist Church, where his father ministered, and later attended Freewill Baptist Church.

Known for his ornery nature and vibrant personality, Willie never met a stranger and had a rare gift for making everyone around him feel like family. A true outdoorsman, he found his greatest joy in fishing, collecting guns, and riding four-wheelers. Above all, he took immense pride in his five children, cherishing the unforgettable motorcycle rides he shared with his sons and the special adventures he took with his daughters. Willie embraced life entirely on his own terms, and his adventurous spirit and unforgettable presence will be forever missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Barbara “Barbie” Holley; his children, Stephanie (Jeremy) Duffy, Willie (Melina) Holley III, Reba (Zachary) Edwards, Matthew (Mysti) Holley, and Nicholas Holley; and his adored grandchildren, Allison, Brock, Kyler, Justin, Kennon, Carter, Konnor, and Abigail. He also leaves behind his siblings, Drema (Steven) Hughes, William “Hank” Holley, and Reba “Joyce” Holley, along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

In addition to his parents, Willie was preceded in death by his sister, Theresa Elliott; his niece, Rosanna Hottinger; his mother-in-law, Ruth Davis; and his brother-in-law, Robert Lott.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on November 5th at the Brucker and Kishler Funeral Home, 985 N. 21st St., Newark. The funeral service will take place at 11:00 AM on November 6th at the funeral home, with Pastor Matt Bryant officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Willie’s honor to Ohio’s Hospice.

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