Frederick Davenport Iii Hollis

Mr Hollis was my band instructor back in 78-79-80, I truly respected the man, even at that age, I've played music in bands my whole life and Mr Hollis is a big reason for that...Thank you Mr Hollis....RIP...

To the Hollis family:

I was just thinking about Mr. Hollis the other day, when I learned of his passing. He was one of my first band directors (Fairview), and I learned a lot from him, as he gave me the foundation I needed to be a strong, competitive player in not only high school, but at Florida A&M, where I was a member of the band, as well!

Thank you for sharing him with me and the countless other musicians who learned under him!

Victor R. Gaines

Fred,and
I just got to know you over the past too few years. Still, I feel I knew
you well. Sure, you could be an ornery teddy bear. Much more, you
revealed yourself to be intelligent and talented, tender and generous. The
boat you were building was awe inspiring. Truly, you are
appreciated.
Love to you and Kay and Petra.

Perhaps there were better tuba players, but I never met them. I did, however, have the great and good fortune to befriend Fred in 1963 and I've had the privilege and joy of being his friend for all these many decades. Please accept my deepest condolences, Kay and Petra.

Dear Kay,

I have only just heard about Fred. I have always considered him a special friend and a great musician. So sorry that he has passed away. Love, Sylvia

Dear Kay,
I just got the sad news about Fred. I have admired his talents since we were classmates at FSU. Tallahassee was so fortunate to have him teaching here for 30 years, and it was wonderful when he was in the tuba section of the Tallahassee Winds. He will be greatly missed by me and many others as you know so well. Here's thinking of you!!
Love, Ginny

Dear Kay: I just got the word. I've been trying to call you, but have not been successful. I was sorry to receive the news and am wishing you the best. Please call me at 407-895-4749. We need to talk. Love you.

What a special guy...my brother Fred! As soon as I got my learner's permit in high school ('71), Fred whisked me off in his new VW squareback on a cross country journey...there were lots of adventures for me visiting his college music buddies along the way. Fred was so generous. I was grateful when he bought me my first car, a VW beetle when I started FSU. At the time, he also suggested I shorten my given name of Florence to an easier moniker: 'Flo', which I go by still. I loved his story...

Dear Kay,

Elda and I are so sorry to hear the news. Fred was among our very first friends at FSU when we all arrived. And he remained a good friend.

Dave Franklin