Carl Anthony Holland

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Life & Legacy of Carl Anthony Holland
Carl Anthony Holland
Sunrise: June 2, 1956 Sunset: July 14, 2025
Carl Anthony Holland was born on June 2, 1956, on the West Side of Chicago, Illinois, to the late Cathrine Ann Holland and Morris Holland. Growing up in Chicago shaped him-he carried the grit, pride, and presence of the West Side wherever he went. In those early years, he also found identity through basketball, a game that taught him discipline, confidence, and how to lead-on and off the court.
In 1978, Carl graduated from the University of Dayton, where he pledged Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. in 1977. The fraternity's values of achievement, service, and brotherhood deeply aligned with the way Carl lived his life. His leadership and intellect led him into a successful career in finance, a field in which he thrived for decades.
After college, Carl returned to Chicago briefly before relocating to Plainfield, New Jersey. There, he became a proud father to his firstborn, Carl Anthony Holland II (with Tracy), and established deep community roots. In 1991, he was raised to Master Mason at Stone Square Lodge #38 (PHA), and remained actively involved in both Kappa Alpha Psi and the Masonic brotherhood-giving back through service, mentorship, and leadership.
Eventually, Carl returned to Chicago to be closer to family, where he welcomed his daughter, Gabrielle Patrice Holland (with Donnie). His presence in their lives was strong, steady, and full of love.
Later in life, Carl moved to Houston, Texas, for a role at A.I.G. There, he formed a close-knit group of friends who became family. He also found spiritual grounding at Lilly Grove Missionary Baptist Church, where he proudly served as both an usher and a trustee. Known affectionately as "Coach," Carl was a fixture in the congregation-always ready with a handshake, a smile, or a word of encouragement.
Carl's final stop in life was Atlanta, Georgia, where he married the love of his life, Adrienne Denise Holland. Their union was a joyful chapter, filled with laughter, partnership, and deep love. Through Adrienne, Carl embraced his role as a bonus father to Malika Gates and Anthony McClary.
Out of all the roles he held, "Papa" may have been his favorite-his granddaughter Charleigh brought him endless joy, and he cherished every moment spent with her.
Carl lived life with intention. He loved golf, good food, great conversation, and any reason to bring people together. Whether in a boardroom, a lodge meeting, a backyard, or a church pew. Carl showed up with wisdom, pride, and purpose. He had a way of commanding respect without demanding it, and left a lasting impression on all who met him.
Carl Anthony Holland is survived by his loving wife Adrienne Denise Holland; his son Carl "Spud" Anthony Holland II; his daughter Gabrielle "Gabby" Patrice Holland; his bonus daughter Malika Gates; his bonus son Anthony McClary; his cherished granddaughter Charleigh Smith; his bonus grandson Genesis Malik Gates; his sister Sheila Nienhaus; and a host of family, fraternity brothers, Masonic brothers, church family, and lifelong friends who loved him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cathrine Ann Holland and Morris Holland.
Carl Anthony Holland leaves behind a legacy defined by integrity, love, leadership, and impact. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, friend, and brother in the bond. His presence will be deeply missed. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.