Winfred Llewellyn Hollis, Sr.

Winfred Hollis Sr. was born on November 25, 1940, in Akron, Ohio, to Patt and Thessie Hollis. He was one of 6 children born from that union.

Winfred graduated from Hower Trade School in 1959 where he learned sheet metal and became one of the tops in his trade. Soon after, he was employed at Firestone as an apprentice. During those 4 years, he continued his education in welding, heating and air conditioning, sheet metal and iron work. After a lot of hard work and study, he became a journeyman. He continued to work at Firestone until he retired in 2002, a total of 42 ½ years. For a time, he also owned his own business.

Winfred and his family first lived in North Akron where he and Janet both went to grade school. Both families moved to different parts of Akron, and they did not cross paths again until ninth grade, where they rekindled their friendship and later started dating. They were married September 3, 1960, and added 3 children to that union, Robin, Winfred Jr “Holly” and Theelia.

Some of our fondest family memories are rolling skating, camping, playing cards, dancing, and traveling. Winfred also enjoyed music, especially jazz and working with his hands. One of the things he enjoyed most, was remodeling areas of his homes.

Winfred had two loves, he loved his family, and he loved his God, Jehovah. He was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1966. He faithfully served Jehovah for 57 years. He had the privilege of serving as an elder for many, many years. He enjoyed being a pioneer and teaching people Bible truths and helping them learn about Jehovah. He was especially proud to see his children and grandchildren embrace the truth wholeheartedly.

Winfred was preceded in death by his parents, Patt and Thessie, 3 siblings Patricia Brown and husband Jim, Theelia Templeton, Patt Hollis Jr. Also, Al Hollis and brother-in-law, John Leonard. All deceased but not forgotten.

Winfred passed away Tuesday, September 19, 2023, after a long battle with his illness. He leaves to mourn, his wife of 63 years, Janet; 3 children – Robin (Owen) Pickens, Winfred Jr (Octavia) Hollis, and Theelia (Darren) Redd; spiritual children – Robert and Robin Fields; 5 grandchildren – Dedrick (Jasmyn) Hollis, Amber (Eric) Hunt, Raquel (Kristian) Moore, Darren Redd II, Parris Hollis; Spiritual grandchildren- Falan and Faryn Fields; Siblings – Darryl (Phylis) Hollis, Fred (Michelle) Hollis and Sisters-in-Law, Carrie Hollis and Katie Leonard, Brothers-in-law Jessie Jr (Alyce) White and Alvin (Patricia) White; Also Mae Hollis; 8 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends including close friend, John Nesbitt. We wish we could name you all!

We long to see our husband and father in good health, smiling, dancing, and working with his hands in the New World to come.