Obituary published on Legacy.com by Forest Meadows Funeral Home - Gainesville on Feb. 24, 2026.
Holly Harrell Kitler, age 61, born in
Jacksonville, Florida, and a longtime resident of
Yulee, Florida, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on February 23rd, surrounded by her loving family.
For more than 30 years in Yulee, she raised her family and built a home filled with love, laughter, music, faith, and always a spot at the table for anyone who was hungry. Her home was a place of comfort, welcome, and unconditional love.
Holly was deeply loving and kind, with a heart that naturally put others before herself. She served quietly, gave generously, and loved deeply. She always had a sweet smile, a warm hug, and an encouraging word for anyone who needed it. Her strength showed not in loud moments, but in steady faith, resilience, and the way she carried others through difficult seasons. She truly lived with a servant's heart.
She shared a beautiful love story with her husband of 35 years, Craig "Randall" Kitler. Married in 1982, they built a life rooted in faith, commitment, and devotion, raising their children and creating a legacy of love that continues through their family. After his passing in 2017, Holly carried forward his memory with strength and dignity, and honored the life they built, and family they created.
Her Children were her heart, She loved them without condition, supported them without hesitation, and always made sure they knew that.
To her grandchildren, she was lovingly known as "Honey," and to her oldest granddaughter, she was proudly "Granny-Mamma" titles she wore with great joy. Being a grandmother was one of her greatest blessings, and she treasured every hug, every laugh, and every moment spent with her grandbabies.
In 2018, Holly was blessed with the gift of a double lung transplant, a second chance at life that she embraced with courage, gratitude, and unwavering faith. She faced that season with remarkable strength and determination, inspiring everyone around her. Those extra years were lived intentionally, loving harder, serving faithfully, and cherishing her time with her family even more deeply.
From a young age, Holly had a deep love for music, especially rock 'n' roll thanks to her big brother Mark. Music always filled her home and lifted her spirit, bringing joy to ordinary days. Whether it was playing while she cleaned, driving with the windows down, or gathered with family, music reflected her vibrant heart.
Holly's love extended far beyond her own home. She played a meaningful role in the lives of many children over the years and if she claimed you as one of her own, that didn't change. In the most recent years, she served in the youth ministry at her church. She poured encouragement, wisdom, and faith into the next generation, leaving an impact that will continue for years to come.
She loved the beach, the warmth of the Florida sunshine, hunting sharks teeth, traveling and above all, she loved Jesus. Her faith was her anchor. She lived her life reflecting Christ's love - through kindness, generosity, forgiveness, and a steady presence that made everyone feel safe and deeply cared for.
Holly was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Lola Harrell; her brothers, Mark and Joseph Harrell; her sister, Janet Anspaugh; and her beloved husband, Craig "Randall" Kitler.
She is survived by her children: Miranda (Jason) Carter, Kirby Kitler-Ladson (Jacob), Craig Randall Kitler (Erynn) and Kiani Cook; her cherished grandchildren: Cheyenne, Annalee, Randall, Piper, Hilton, Daityn, Maelyn, Kaylee, Colton and Evelyn, with one precious new baby expected to arrive this month; her sister and lifelong best friend, Shirley Dasher(Lonnie) her sister-in-law, Susan Harrell; Greg(Tammie) Kitler, Rodney(Laura)Kitler, and Karen Rickert (Kip) and many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and extended family members who will forever carry her love in their hearts.
Her legacy is one of faith, family, music, service, perseverance, and fierce, unconditional love.
Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing she is reunited with her beloved husband and resting in the presence of her Savior.
A celebration of Holly's life will be held on Sunday, March 8 at Yulee Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 4:00–5:00 PM, with the service beginning at 5:00 PM and concluding at 6:00 PM. Dinner will follow as family and friends gather to continue sharing memories and honoring her life.