Ralph Nelson Holland

Ralph Nelson Holland, a long-time resident of White Hall/Pine Bluff, Ark., died peacefully on Sunday, September 25, 2022. He was born on February 15, 1942, to the late J.C. and Sophie Holland of Bastrop, La. Ralph is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Karon Files Holland of Pine Bluff, Ark.; one daughter, Leslie Anne Holland (David DeBord); along with two grandchildren (Lea and Olivia DeBord), all living in Osan AFB, South Korea. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Tony and Phillip Holland of Bastrop, La. Ralph grew up on a farm in Bastrop, La. He learned to ride horses, hunt, and garden at an early age. As he got older, he found a love for fox hunting, dogs, and gospel music, often singing bass in a quartet. After graduating high school from Bastrop, he moved to Pine Bluff where he lived with his aunt and uncle, where he met his wife, Karon. In his late twenties, he was drafted into the United States Army. He completed boot camp at Fort Polk, La., before being shipped off to Vietnam. He was assigned to a motor transport group, who conducted convoys. After returning home, he and Karon were married. He joined the Jefferson County Sherriff's Office, where he covered patrol as a deputy. He worked for the local papermill, Weyerhaeuser, in Pine Bluff. The mill changed ownership several times. He was employed at the mill as a maintenance mechanic for over 40 years before retiring from the company as MidAmerica. During his time with the company, he served as the Union President for the local unit. Ralph was an avid fox hunter, talented bass singer, and doting father and grandfather to family members and children of family friends. In the 90s, he and his wife were founding members of a Southern gospel quartet, who traveled the tri-state area performing concerts. He loved the outdoors. He loved camping, fishing, and deer hunting. He loved baseball and often found the time to help coach his daughter's softball team. He will be missed by family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors. Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 9, 2022, from 2-4 p.m. at Buie Funeral Home (1301 S. Rock, Sheridan, Ark. 72150). A memorial service will be held at Buie Funeral Home on Monday, October 10, 2022, at 10 a.m. followed by a Burial Ceremony at Philadelphia Cemetery (2511 Highway 190 S, Prattsville, Ark. 72129). Arrangements by Buie Funeral Home of Sheridan (870) 942-3231. Please sign the online guestbook at www.buiefuneralhome.com.