William "Bill" Holloman

William Bascom Holloman, a man of loving spirit, courageous heart, and selfless nature, completed his earthly journey on January 13, 2025, at the age of 98. He was born to John H. and Myna Lou (Haley) Holloman on March 21, 1926, in the small town of Itta Bena, Mississippi. It is with profound sadness that we announce his peaceful passing in Rowlett, Texas.
Bill was a beacon of resilience and strength. He grew up in an era of great change, and from a young age, as a dedicated Eagle Scout, he demonstrated the exceptional qualities that would define his life. He served his country in the U.S. Army from June 1944 to April 1946. As a high school senior he was recruited into ASTRP and was transferred to Florida for specialized reserve training. Right after his 18th birthday, he began basic training at Fort Bliss in El Paso, TX, and then at Fort Wolters in Mineral Wells, TX, before being shipped overseas to England, France and Germany. He participated in three battles, including the Battle of the Bulge. Bill served as a rifleman and was awarded a combat badge with 3 battle stars. He also garnered the Good Conduct Medal and Expert Marksman Medal. A Corporal in the 424th Regiment, he was discharged when Japan surrendered.
After completing his Bachelor's degree at Ole Miss University, Bill continued on a remarkable career dedicated to the service of his country. As a Special Agent of the F.B.I., he committed himself to upholding justice with integrity and tenacity. While in the Bureau, he was an accomplished polygraph examiner and a well-regarded Police instructor. In his later years as a Private Investigator, his time was spent ensuring safety at Braniff Airlines and Preston State Bank, further showcasing his unwavering commitment to the protection and well-being of others.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Bill's life was rich with personal passions and achievements. An accomplished photographer, he had an extraordinary ability to capture the essence of a moment, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. His love for reading and crosswords fueled his sharp intellect, while his affinity for animals reflected his compassionate soul. Bill never lost his love of reading and in his later years enjoyed books on tape. In his youth, Bill's prowess as a high school track and football star hinted at the discipline and dedication that would characterize his entire life.
Though his list of accomplishments is long, it was Bill's role as a family man that brought him the greatest joy. Time spent with his family and visits from his beloved friends were a source of extreme happiness to him. He was a loving father to his children, Patti Watson and Marilyn Belisle, and a guiding light to his stepson, Richard Coffin. His legacy continued to flourish through his grandchildren, Tommy Belisle, Joey Belisle, Jennifer Sanders, Timmy Watson, and Brandon Brock, as well as his five great-grandchildren, who will remember him for his boundless love and the wisdom he imparted.
Bill's journey through life was marked by the love he shared with his family, including his parents and siblings who predeceased him, as well as his cherished daughter, Nancy Holloman. His memory will be held dear in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him, as a testament to the lives he touched and the difference he made.
As we bid farewell to Bill, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest. We honor a man who, through his loving nature, courageous actions, and selfless service, left an indelible mark on the world. His story does not end with his passing but continues in the countless lives he influenced and the enduring love he shared.
A graveside ceremony 9 am, January 23, 2025, will be held at Dallas/Fort Worth National Cemetery to honor Bill's memory, where his family and close friends will gather to pay tribute to a remarkable man.