Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Robert Holland Obituary
Chesapeake - Renowned local artist Bob Holland passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 14 surrounded by the love of his family.
Born in Newport News, Virginia on August 27, 1938 to Robert E. Holland, Sr. and Margaret Rich Holland, Bob earned his BFA in Commercial Design from Richmond Professional Institute (now Virginia Commonwealth University) and his BFA in Industrial Design/Transportation from Art Center School of Design. A lifelong automobile enthusiast, he began his Industrial Design career as a Senior Designer with Ford Motor Company in the Lincoln, Mercury and Thunderbird Studios in Dearborn, Michigan and later as a Design Manager in Consumer Electronics at General Electric in Suffolk. As an artist, Bob found his inspiration in the beauty of our Hampton Roads area, his art reflecting images from the power of our Navy, the grace of a waterfowl, our colonial and maritime history to the working waterman. Best known for his watercolors of Williamsburg and tall ships, Bob's Visionary Series is a reflection of his spiritual studies and design talent. His paintings, with his trademark upside-down "A" signature, have been exhibited in art shows up and down the East Coast for decades and grace the walls of corporate headquarters, the Pentagon, US Navy wardrooms and homes across the country. He was a proud member of the American Society of Marine Artists (ASMA) and an U.S. Coast Guard/COGAP Artist Member, among other professional organizations.
A loving family man, Bob is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sharon, as well as his children: daughter, Cynthia Pedigo of Chesapeake; sons, Robert Holland of Portsmouth and David Holland of Seaford, Virginia; son-in law, Jim Pedigo; two granddaughters, Victoria Pedigo of Greensboro, NC and Olivia Pedigo of Fort Myers FL.; his faithful canine companion, Bella and a host of other beloved friends and family members.
He was the center of our family, the one we all relied on for wisdom and support. We love him and will miss him every day.
A Celebration of Life will be held on October 4, 2018 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. on the Carrie B, docked at the High Street Ferry Landing in Portsmouth (1 High Street).
View the online memorial for Robert E. Holland
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Holland
Sponsored by the family.
M. JACKSON
September 23, 2023
I never stop remembering He is family to me, and I sm truly blessed to know him
Paul Germain
October 1, 2018
So sorry to hear of Bob's passing. I spoke him a couple months ago after some years. I was not aware of his health troubles before that. Our friendship goes back to the 1970's when I was a commercial art director and he was an industrial designer for GE TV in Portsmouth and one of my clients. We connected immediately when we discovered we both had our sights set on being full-time fine artists as soon as our families were grown.
He was a star artist at the Decker Gallery when I was just getting noticed at the gallery's Richmond location. I always enjoyed his company (and his opinions)! Rest In Peace Bob Holland!
DD
October 1, 2018
So sorry for your loss. May you find comfort and peace knowing that God cares for you and will help you in your time of need. 1 Peter 5:6,7
Peggy Beardslee
September 29, 2018
Bob had the studio next to mine at d'Art. He was always friendly and helpful. A truly great person and artist. My deepest sympathy to his family.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Deborah Waller
September 28, 2018
I am truly saddened to hear of Mr. Holland's passing. He was a remarkable man and I am so grateful that I was able to meet him and visit with him and Mrs. Holland last year. Mrs. Sharon, you and your family are in my prayers. God Bless, Deb Waller
Karen Kinser
September 27, 2018
Bob was very kind to me, when I first joined the d'Art Center - back in the early 90's. He was always willing to share 'art show' tips and give advice. Like a 'big brother' - he kind of looked out for the 'newbies'.
I will always remember him fondly . . . and with a smile. He was a 'character' . . . an original work of ART, for sure! And he will be missed. My sympathies to Sharon . . . and the rest of Bob's family.
Rob and John
September 27, 2018
John and I wish to express our condolences to the Holland family. Truly a great man that will be deeply missed.
September 27, 2018
A mentor and a true friend,
my admiration knows no end.
Matthew Bernier
September 27, 2018
I enjoyed knowing Bob as an artist at Norfolk's d'ART Center for many years. I admired his art, humor, and kind spirit. I will miss him!
Carlton Hardy
September 27, 2018
A remarkable legacy. He lives in the collective memories of his wife and children until they meet again.
Showing 1 - 10 of 10 results
Make a Donation
in Robert Holland's name
Memorial Events
for Robert Holland
People and places connected with Robert
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Robert's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Robert Holland's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
