Mrs. Ruth Josephine Holland

Livestream Link -> www.youtube.com@events1081/streams Ruth Josephine Belser Holland was born on March 27, 1928, in Camden, New Jersey, to Felicia House and Jerome Belser. She was the second of four children. She and her siblings were reared in Gold Hill, North Carolina. Ruth later moved to Washington, D.C. where she graduated from Cardozo High School while working part-time at the Pentagon. Mommie (Ruth) lived a full life and left us these legacies: Legacy of Determination: Ruth embodied female independence long before it was fashionable. She was industrious and discovered her love of photography at Webb Studio on 7th Street NW. There, she met the love of her life, James Everett Holland. The two fell in love and soon eloped, beginning a beautiful life together in Detroit, Michigan. There he earned his electrical license, and Ruth became a devoted homemaker, raising their four children, and supporting Everett’s career. Legacy of Courage: In 1960, the family moved back to DC due to a pivotal life changing event. Everett was selected as the first African American electrical journeyman to integrate the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (Local 26). This historical milestone was negotiated by then-Vice President Richard Nixon, George Meany of the AFL-CIO, and Sterling Tucker of the DC Urban League. During this time, he also earned his Master Electrical License. Through this tumultuous time, Ruth provided emotional security during the many challenges. Legacy of Entrepreneurial Spirit: Ruth was a force to be reckoned with and in 1963 she opened her own photography business, The Oriental Studio on 7th Street NW. She took pride in teaching her husband and eldest daughter, Sandra how to develop photos, passing on her skills to the next generation. The family later expanded into the neighboring grocery business, which became a beloved memory for her children. They could indulge in all types of foods which did not help their retail sales :). Despite the demands of running multiple businesses, Ruth managed to balance work and raising her children. Ruth had other hidden gifts. She was a skilled seamstress, making her daughter’s clothing, and making professional draperies and furniture covers without the use of commercial patterns. In partnership with Everett, she owned, constructed and managed several rental properties in Washington, D.C. and Maryland as well as the Carribbean. Also, they designed and built furniture. Legacy of Service: In mid 1960, Ruth and Everett began opening their home to Howard University women students. She later expanded this service to out-of-state females accepted as administrative staff for the FBI. Over the many years, more than 60 amazing women fondly called this home the Mills Ave Dorm (MAD). Through this wonderful endeavor we even gained a bonus sister, Parthenia (aka Polly) Clarke. Legacy of Self Determination: In late 1960, Ruth, in her indomitable spirit, sold her businesses and decided to pursue a new passion—early childhood education. She earned her daycare provider certificate from Prince George’s College and opened “Big Bird Day Care.” This nurturing environment became a jewel not only for her grandchildren but amongst the community. Ruth was a community activist. She was an advocate for major neighborhood improvements including Rollingcrest-Chillum Community Center and Splash Pool, Rollingcrest Commons Senior Development and Chillum Neighborhood Park. Legacy of Resilience: In June 1992, after 44 years of marriage, Ruth faced the heartbreaking loss of her husband, Everett. While grief could have overwhelmed her, she found new joys in life through bowling where she collected numerous trophies, traveling and making lifelong friends. She embraced a passion for dancing becoming a founding member of the “Snappy Steppers” senior line dance group. She was a member and formerly held officer positions with the renowned Banneker Ballroom Dance Club which she truly loved. Her energy and zest for life touched everyone she met. Legacy of Faith: Ruth’s faith in God was woven into her being. She became a longtime member of New Dawn Baptist Church. Her spiritual journey was shared with her daughter-in-law, Dorothy, further deepening her connection to family and community. In late 1995, Ruth married Joe Montgomery and attended Brooklyn Union Baptist Church, and they later divorced. Thereafter, her days remained filled with the same grace, strength, and generosity that had defined her life. Legacy of Family: Ruth leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom and an unwavering commitment to her family. She is survived by her children, Sandra Handon (Reginald), Steven Holland (Dorothy) Dr. Pamela Ballard (Dennis), Vickie Holland (daughter in law); goddaughter Parthenia Clarke; grandchildren; Michael Jason (Roberta), Steven Everett, Jasmin, Khadia, Dr. Amber Ballard and Bria and god grand godchildren Tiffany and Warren; great grandchildren, Skylar, Karima, Shaquanne, Shahirah, Taahirah; great, great grandchildren, Haven, Nahly, Naheim; god great grandchildren, Damious, Daelynn and a host of relatives and friends. Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Everett, two sisters: Jean and Helen: one brother Joe and her son Kenneth Everett Holland. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who had the honor of knowing her.

Mrs. Ruth Josephine Holland

March 27, 1928 - October 8, 2024

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Mrs. Ruth Josephine Holland

March 27, 1928 - October 8, 2024

365 Days of Grief Support

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Resources

Grief & Healing

Obituaries

About Us

Contact Information