Laura J. Holladay

Laura Johnstone Holladay, of Columbia, SC, wife of John Henry Holladay, Jr., passed away on January 15, 2022, in her home, surrounded by family. She was 87. Laura was born on August 9, 1934, in Orangeburg, S.C. to the late Johnnie Ray Johnstone and Sallie Thrasher Johnstone.She is preceded in death by her son, John Michael Holladay, Sr. Laura was a model of strength, courage, faith, love, and beauty up until she went home to meet the Lord.She was a fierce defender of family and traditions, always seeking to learn and better herself.She was a US veteran serving during the Korean War, had a love for philanthropy and community, and was instrumental in the development of multiple programs in the Irmo/Columbia area including, the first girls’ softball program out of Seven Oaks Recreation Center, The St. Andrews Woman’s Club, and the local girl scout chapter. Her work with the Woman’s Club earned multiple national and local awards.Laura also assisted in the recovery efforts for hurricane victims in South Carolina. She was an artist, baker, seamstress, athlete, dancer, and a Master Gardener who was known for unselfishly sharing her projects with others. She devoted her life to her family whom she loved and protected. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, John Henry Holladay, Jr.; her daughters, Linda Kennedy (Jim), Judi Bledsoe, and Jennifer “Jeni” Yates (Kevin); grandchildren, John Michael Holladay, Christy Boaman, Taylor Hydrick, Jordan Hydrick, Benjamin Bledsoe, Sunni Caskey, Kailey Yates, and Tristan Young; 8 great-grandchildren and her sister, Joyce Pruitt of West Columbia. The family will receive friends at Temples Halloran Funeral Home, 5400 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC 29212, Friday, January 21, 2022, from 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm. The funeral service will be held on Sunday, January 23, 2022, at Washington Street Methodist Church, 1401 Washington Street, Columbia, SC 29201 at 2:00 pm officiated by Reverend Becky Shirley and Reverend Paul Harmon. Burial will follow in Bush River Memorial Gardens with military honors by the US Air Force. Memorials may be made to CAMP KEMO Programs, 7 Richland Medical Park Dr., Suite 7215, Columbia, SC 29203.