Ray Holland (10 May 1941 - 9 May 2026)

In loving memory of Ray Holland who sadly passed away on 9th May 2026

Raymond “Ray” Holland

(Husband, Dad, Grandad and Great Grandad)

Raymond “Ray” Holland was born on 10th May 1941, in the midst of the Second World War, to James William Holland and Alice Lillian Holland (née Carter). An only child, Ray was born and raised at 117 Riverdale Road, Erith, Kent, where he spent much of his childhood alongside his cousin Paddy, with whom he shared a close bond.

Ray attended local schools and college in Erith, where he trained in Engineering. Throughout his life he often spoke fondly — and sometimes humorously — about the strict nuns at school, whose discipline and standards clearly left a lasting impression on him and became stories often retold within the family.

A central part of Ray’s early life was Christ Church, Erith, where he became involved with the church youth club. It was there that he met Iris May Pearson, who would later become his wife. Their shared faith, commitment to community, and love of working with young people became defining features of their life together.

Ray became heavily involved in Scouting and eventually served as Scout Master, alongside Iris who was Akela. Scouting became a true family affair, with many happy memories made at camps and events attended together over the years. Ray was deeply committed to helping and guiding young people, something that remained a constant throughout his life.

Ray and Iris married on 1st June 1963 at Christ Church, Erith, Kent. Together they raised two daughters, Tracey and Karen, creating a warm and welcoming family home. Their generosity and compassion extended far beyond their immediate family, as they went on to foster many newborn babies, toddlers, and long-term foster children over the years. Their family grew further when Richard was adopted at the age of 11, bringing the household from four to five and completing a family built on love, care, and acceptance.

Alongside family life, Ray continued his career in engineering while remaining actively involved in youth organisations within the community. One of these was the Boys’ Brigade, where Richard attended as a member. Ray became the Band Master and proudly led the Brigade band at regional events, including the memorable Centenary event in Eltham. Once again, camps, trips, and community activities became treasured family experiences.

In the late 1980s, Ray embraced a new chapter in his working life by retraining as a driving instructor. He went on to establish his own business, Gem School of Motoring, through which he taught and encouraged countless learner drivers with patience and dedication.

Ray was also an active and respected member of the Freemasons, giving much of his time to charitable work and fundraising events. In later life, his faith continued to guide him as he undertook further study within the church and became a local chaplain serving Purfleet-on-Thames, local schools, and Lakeside Shopping Centre. His ministry reflected the same kindness, compassion, and willingness to serve others that had defined his entire life.

Above all else, Ray was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandad and great grandad whose life was centred around family, faith, community, and helping others. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, service, humour, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.