Col. Frank B. Holland, age 85, of Oakton, passed away on Oct. 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 5, 1940, in Cheriton, Frank devoted his life to service — to his country, his family, and his community.
A proud career soldier, he served with honor and distinction in the U.S. Army for 30 years, including during the Vietnam and Gulf wars. His leadership, integrity, and deep sense of duty earned him the respect and admiration of all who served alongside him. Frank cherished his years in uniform and often shared stories from his time in service — stories filled with camaraderie, challenge, and pride in the mission he so deeply believed in.
During his distinguished military career, Colonel Holland received numerous decorations and awards recognizing his exceptional service and leadership, including the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Meritorious Unit Commendation with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Service Stars, Kuwait Liberation Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Master Parachutist Badge, and Special Forces Tab.
His professional military education included completion of the Command and General Staff College, the Officer Advanced Course, the Airborne Course, the Special Forces Qualification Course, the Jumpmaster Course, and the Free Fall Parachutist Course.
Following his retirement from active duty, Frank continued his lifelong commitment to service as an ROTC instructor, mentoring and inspiring future generations of military leaders. Later, he dedicated more than a decade to working at a homeless shelter, offering compassion, guidance, and a helping hand to those in need.
After fully retiring, Frank found joy in the quiet comforts of home. He devoted himself to caring for his beloved dogs and took great pride in maintaining his home — a reflection of his warmth, discipline, and attention to detail.
Frank also had a lifelong passion for cars. He loved restoring, maintaining, and talking about them and could recall every vehicle he ever owned with remarkable detail. When he was no longer able to care for his cars, he turned to collecting miniature models of his favorites, each chosen with the same precision and pride that defined everything he did.
Frank was known for his quick wit, quiet strength, and unwavering love for his family. He led by example with humility, grace, and a steadfast commitment to doing what was right.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 39 years, Lt. Col. Awilda (Wendy) V. Holland; his children, Julie Jon Holland and her partner, Darren Diamond, Nicole Holland Harris and her husband, Bethel Harris, Arny Sagardia, and Daniel Sagardia. He was a proud grandfather to Sydney Hawkins, Isabella Hughes, Houston Mallette, Holland Harris, and Daniella Sagardia. He is also survived by his sister, Mignon Holland Anderson, as well as his niece and nephew and their families.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ruby Vivian Treherne and Frank Bernard Holland.
A funeral service with full military honors will be held at the Old Post Chapel, Fort Myer, followed by interment at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.
Col. Holland lived a life of purpose, faith, and compassion. His legacy of service and love will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
