Bonnie (Blackburn) Holland

Bonnie (Blackburn) Holland

Bonnie was born on January 29, 1949, in San Mateo, California, to Cyrus and Sudie Blackburn.  When she was six months old, they moved to Brownsville, Texas, and established an electronics business.  This is where Bonnie and her brother grew up.

She excelled in everything she tried.  She loved the Girls Scouts.  She was an outstanding student and an avid reader.  She was the First Runner-up in the Miss Rio Grande Valley Pageant, an affiliate of the Miss America Pageant.  She was the Valedictorian of Brownsville High School in 1967.

She attended Southwest Texas State University, now Texas State University.  While an undergraduate, she was a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority.  She was also a proud member of the renowned dance team, The Strutters; “Once a Strutter, always a Strutter!†She earned her Bachelor of Arts in 1971, graduating with Highest Honors.

She enrolled in graduate school immediately after graduating and was hired to teach English at the University in the Fall.  In one of her first graduate classes, she met David Holland, a science teacher in Killeen.  After several attempts by him to get a date, she finally acquiesced.

 It worked!

They were married on May 27, 1972, and established a life together and their careers in Killeen.  She earned a Master of Arts with Highest Honors.  She served the students of Killeen ISD for 45 years, her favorites being those years as an elementary counselor.  She and David marked their 50th anniversary this year.

Family was first and foremost in her life.  Her daughter, Amy Kathleen, was born in 1987, and currently resides in Belton.  She loved God and was a member of Central Christian Church of Killeen.  She was one of many of the members who literally built the building.

She taught Children’s Church for 20 years and sang in the choir.  She also served as worship leader.  She was a Girl Scout Leader for many years. 

She enjoyed sudoku, sewing, cooking, camping, swimming, reading, gardening, landscaping, walking, sailing – the best sailor in the family.  She also loved her dogs.

She is survived by David Holland, husband; Amy Kathleen Holland, daughter; John L. Blackburn, brother (Catherine); the Holland and Cortese families of Little River; Jack and Rosemary Leflore; many nieces, nephews, and cousins and their families; and Kathy Martin and Merle Jean Hughs, childhood friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held for Bonnie Holland on August 1, 2022, at 2:00pm at Central Christian Church, 1301 Trimmier Road, in Killeen, Texas.  She passed away in Brownsville, Texas, on July 9, 2022, following a two-year battle with a series of complicated health issues.   At the family’s request, in lieu of flowers, you may make a memorial donation to Central Christian Church or your favorite charity.  

2 Comments

  • Melinda Martinez-De Leon Posted July 25, 2022 8:06 am

    Sending healing prayers and comforting hugs. I am so sorry for your loss.

  • Stephen Caruso Posted July 26, 2022 3:56 pm

    Our sincere thoughts and prayers during this sorrowful time. Bonnie was an excellent person and educator. It is without question, her character, upbringing, academic and spiritual talents made a difference in thousands of students and adults in her lifetime. As a Brownsville Eagle of outstanding contributions she made a difference in peoples lives. Soar high to the heavens Bonnie.

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