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BORN
1976
DIED
2025
Holly Rands Obituary
June 9, 1976 - April 30, 2025
Boise, Idaho - With unyielding spirit and unforgettable wit, Holly, 48, passed away April 30, 2025, after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and relentless determination-a life lived at full speed, fearless, in your face, never backing down. She was our zebra in a herd of horses.
Born in Boise, Idaho Holly attended Roosevelt Elementary, East Junior High and Boise High School. As a gifted athlete and runner, Holly's tenacity inspired those around her, and her infectious humor-often laced with sharp sarcasm-could turn even the toughest moments into shared smiles. She was beautiful inside and out, radiating confidence and warmth in everyone she dealt with.
As a mother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend and co-worker, Holly was fiercely loyal and endlessly encouraging. She celebrated their victories, and stood beside them through every challenge. Though fierce on the outside her love was a constant: strong, unwavering, and unconditional.
Those who knew her will remember her as a force-funny, tireless, tenacious and forever bold. She tackled life's hurdles with grace and grit and a, "Let's do this!" never backing down, always moving forward mentality. Her encouragement lifted others, her sarcasm made them laugh, and her loyalty made them feel safe.
Though cancer claimed her far too soon, Holly faced her illnesses and setbacks with the same courage and humor that defined her life. She taught us to live our lives with heart, to love without reservation, and to never, ever lose our sense of humor-even in the face of adversity.
She is deeply missed and forever loved by her family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know her. She is survived by her parents, Joan and David Rands, her siblings, Amy Rands, Ayn McMillan (Phil), David Rands (Trisha), her nephews, Jacksen Rands, Carter McMillan, her special cousin Wendy Amendolito, Aunt Phoebe, other extended family, her son Houston Miller and her beloved corgis Midge and Mylo. A Celebration of Life is planned for June 2025.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Holly Rands
Sponsored by The Idaho Statesman.
Charlynn & James Clark
May 22, 2025
Dear Dave - We didn't know your precious daughter, Holly, but when talking with you last month you shared your heartbreak knowing she was suffering so much. We are sorry for your loss and pray that you and your family will feel the comfort and peace of our Savior and trust in the faith that you will be reunited with her again. Sending love and prayers.
Holly Berrey Dedman
May 13, 2025
Our condolences to all her closest family. So many happy memories together at the lake that will never be forgotten. She´ll always be little Holly, playing at the beach, catching lizards on the rocks, or shaded up making rolls of paper receipts on Grandpa's adding machine for her intricate pretend business transactions.
Jeannine (Sweat) Mars
May 12, 2025
Joan, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I pray that God will wrap you and your family in comfort and peace.
Ricardo and Jody
May 10, 2025
We are so saddened with your loss Joan. A light that shined in our lives. Call if we can provide something. A shoulder or a hug.
Catherine Bettis
May 10, 2025
Holly was so much fun. Whoever wrote this obituary did a great job. I'm sorry to hear she had a battle with cancer in the end. We were at Roosevelt Elementary a million years ago. That spirit IS something. And will go on. My condolences to her family and friends.
Carter L Wilson III
May 9, 2025
My sincerest condolences for the family. It is so difficult to lose someone so young. My the Lord reach out and give you peace as you mourn.
Debbie Anderson
May 9, 2025
Prayers to the family!
Arena Dick
May 9, 2025
Thoughts and prayers to her family, and friends, this is so sad to hear. Holly helped me run my first ever 10k race and will always remember her encouragement and enthusiasm.
Jodi Hullinger
May 9, 2025
I´m so sorry for you all. What a loss, way too soon. With love, Jodi
Mike Marchese
May 9, 2025
Heartfelt condolences for David and Joan and all the family. Though I didn´t Holly, I know her dad, and her description validates what good parents are capable of doing. Praying for comfort and solace from this grief. Sending love and hugs.
Kathy Cavallini
May 9, 2025
Holly, was a joy to be around. Her spirit was infectious. The memories I made working with Holly at ATHLETA will remain in a special place in my heart .
Nancy
May 9, 2025
So sorry to hear about Holly! She definitely always full of life with a wild sense of humor. I was in a running group with her and she carried me along at times when I didn´t think I could go further. Thanks Holly for your smile and love. You will be missed by many!!
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