Frederick James Hollinger

Frederick James Hollinger, affectionately known as Fred, was born September 19, 1943, and died February 22, 2025. He is survived by his wife, Gay Hollinger; children, Renée Smith, Lance Smith (Lisa Collins), and Ken Hollinger (Raven); grandchildren, Gage and Haley Hollinger, Eli Hedaria, Kimberly and Tyler Smith, and Amelia Earl; and sister, Barbara Hollinger (Jim Rebhan).
Fred, who often called himself the luckiest person alive, passed away peacefully at 81. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, Air Force veteran, and banking professional, he lived a life of adventure, purpose, and joy, leaving an indelible mark with his warmth, humor, and wisdom.
Fred grew up in an era he deemed the best time to be born, crediting his long, happy life to good fortune, wise choices, and being "wired right." A natural optimist, he championed hard work, lifelong learning, and kindness. Raised in a family that prized
resilience and self-sufficiency, he carried those values forward.
After excelling in school, Fred attended Harvey Mudd College before transferring to the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he indulged his love of history. His curiosity and passion shaped his career and personal pursuits. Upon graduating, he
was commissioned as an officer in the United States Air Force, serving 27 years with distinction and retiring as a Colonel. He embraced 13 diverse roles within the Air Force with enthusiasm before transitioning seamlessly into life as a civilian. Upon retirement from the Air Force, Fred put his computationally prolific mind to work in banking and financial services, where he adroitly managed the integration of disparate large databases. He worked full-time into his later years, relishing the challenges and camaraderie.
Fred often said his wife, Gay, was his greatest blessing. Together, they built a life of love, laughter, and adventure. His children and grandchildren, embodying his values of hard work, integrity, and curiosity, were his pride. Beyond family, Fred nurtured deep friendships with people across diverse backgrounds. He was known for his sense of humor and storytelling.
An avid explorer, Fred lived overseas for 11 years, visited 47 states, and traveled to one-sixth of the world's countries. Whether navigating foreign streets, recalling Air Force days, or driving his beloved 1965 Morgan-a dream since college-he embraced
adventure. He also cherished simpler joys: a morning coffee, a sharp editorial, or a lively debate. A gifted storyteller, he wove humor and insight into every tale. Fred's principles were straightforward yet deep: respect everyone, treat others as you'd
be treated, and live honestly. He saw life as a journey to savor, not a race to win. His concept of "pinball events"-small, chance moments like spotting a Morgan, switching colleges, or meeting Gay through the Northern California Morgan Club-highlighted his delight in life's twists.
Fred Hollinger's legacy is gratitude, resilience, and humor. He lived fully, loved deeply, and left wisdom and warmth for his wife, children, grandchildren, and countless friends fortunate to share his journey.
A private ceremony for family will be held at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia in the Spring.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Park Springs Employee Appreciation Fund, ATTN: Kaye Godwin, 500 Springhouse Circle, Stone Mountain, GA 30087.
Online condolences may be left at www.billheadfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements by Bill Head Funeral Home & Crematory Lilburn/Tucker Chapel