Robert E. Holland

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

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Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Sep. 27, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Holland

Sponsored by the family.

10 Entries

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!

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.

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.

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