Raymond James Holland, Sr.

“Smokey,” Raymond James Holland, 83 years, of Wakefield Rhode Island born, June 9, 1933 ended his journey through this world on June 25th, 2016, surrounded by his loved ones. Raymond leaves behind his wife Dorina (Cook) Holland of 58 years and 8 children: Cynthia Hassell and husband, Scott of Wakefield RI; Raymond Holland Jr. and wife Marion of Wickford, RI; Mark Holland of Hampton; VA, Robin Coyle and husband Patrick of Myrtle Beach, SC, Theodore “Ted” Holland of Narragansett, RI; Shawn Holland of Wakefield, RI; Melissa Fenner and husband “Bud” of Wallingford Connecticut; and Jason Holland and wife Andrea of Charlestown, RI; as well as 16 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Raymond joined the Army in February of 1955 and was discharged as a Corporal in February 1957. He represented the US Army company baseball team and spent most of his enlistment traveling with the team. He was also scouted by a few major league teams, but decided to come home to marry the woman he loved and build a family. Raymond and Dorina were married on May 3, 1958 and lived in Wakefield most of their married life. They recently resided for a short time in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina where they often vacationed with their family. “Smokey” as he was known by many of the “old timers” in town, will be remembered for his passion for baseball. He played the game with many of his South Kingstown High School friends on the farm team. He coached many children’s baseball teams that included his own boys when they were younger. He was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox and an avid golfer. Ray was a member of Laurel Lane Golf Course and Pine Hill for many years where he would play 3 to 5 times a week. He worked for The Wakefield Post Office for over 30 years before retiring in 1992. Many will remember him as the mail carrier with the happy smile and pleasant personality. He was devoted to spending time with his family and enjoyed any occasion where he could be with his family at cookouts, holidays and other events. He especially enjoyed watching his grandsons, Noah and Jacob play basketball and baseball and tried to not miss any of their games. He was loved by all and will be sadly missed. The family wishes to thank Hospice for their wonderful care, especially Leah and all the phone operators. Visiting hours will be held Thursday, June 30, 2016 from 4-7 pm followed by a service at 7 pm in Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia Street, Wakefield, RI.