Barbara Carol Holland passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on November 4, 2025, at the age of 82. She was born in Midland, Texas.
Barbara was one of a kind, full of energy, faith, and love for others. From a young age, she was a hard worker and shared a special bond with her sister, Betty. They were more than just sisters; they were best friends. She had a creative touch and could sew just about anything, from matching outfits for her and her daughters as well as their beautiful dance costumes.
In 1986, Barbara married Dixon Holland in Lake Tahoe, and together they shared many happy years filled with laughter, travel, and cherished memories.
Barbara spent more than 30 years in real estate and became a top producer at RE/MAX. She was a true people person, constantly on the go, lending a hand, and greeting everyone with a smile and an encouraging word. Her clients quickly became dear friends, and many thought of her as a second mom because she cared so deeply and wanted the best for everyone.
But beyond her career, Barbara’s heart shined brightest at home. She was extremely close to her daughters Susan and Janet, who were her pride and joy. She loved taking her girls shopping and especially went all out for their birthdays, planning elaborate parties filled with creativity and love. Her home was the place people wanted to be, full of laughter, good food, and that special warmth only she could create.
Barbara was famous for her holiday traditions. Everyone looked forward to her delicious homemade cheese balls at Christmas, and her grandsons have fond memories of making spritz cookies with her during the holidays. She loved cooking and baking, decorating for every season, and filling her home with family and friends. And no gathering was complete without a glass of her Southern sweet tea, served with love and a smile.
She was affectionately known as the “Energizer Bunny,” always ready to go somewhere, do something, or help someone. Barbara loved traveling, going to the movies, tending to her flowers, and listening to gospel music. She had an infectious laugh and a way of making everyone feel special.
Her faith guided her life, and she lived it with a servant’s heart: generous, thoughtful, and devoted to lifting others up through her kindness and love. She always put other people first. Barbara loved being a Christian and found great joy in her relationship with the Lord.
Family meant everything to Barbara. She loved her daughters deeply and was so proud of her grandsons, Mitchell and Mark. She was an integral part of their daily lives. The boys spent the night with her often, she picked them up from school, and she was always available to babysit or help out at a moment’s notice. Barbara was extremely involved in their activities and never missed a game or a special event. Being “Maw Maw” brought her endless joy, and she filled that role with the same enthusiasm, energy, and devotion that defined every part of her life. Her family will forever remember her famous sayings: “It’s time to hit the road” and “Be careful!”
Barbara leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and faith that will continue to inspire everyone who knew her. She made life brighter, fuller, and more meaningful for so many, and her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched. She will be remembered for her vibrant, outgoing personality, her ability to connect with people, and her generous heart. She had a big impact on the lives of everyone she met and was truly a giver.
She is survived by her daughters, Susan Henderson and husband Hank, and Janet Ballard and husband Jim; grandsons, Mitchell and Mark Henderson; her sister, Betty Chambers and husband Jerry; niece, Kim Brannin and husband Jon; nephew, Lance Chambers and his son Gage; along with many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.
She was preceded in death by her parents, James D. and Bennie Williams, and her husband, Dixon Holland.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas. A graveside service will follow on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, Texas.