Wesley Holland

Joseph "Wesley" Holland, Jr. loved music all his life. He began guitar lessons at age 11 with five other students who were taught by Lee Ruff. They all played guitars and performed the tune "Pipe Line" in their first competition. Robby Coleman received a new set of drums for Christmas the next year. Mike Ruff played the organ and a great band was formed. Several years later they advanced to the First State Battle of the Bands competition in Greenville SC. They came in first runner up playing a rendition of the instrumental hit "Love is Blue." The name of their band changed a few times, beginning with the Del-fives, Medieval Morning Blues and finally, Early Warning. Although the band changed names several times, the members remained the same. The members included Lee Ruff (teacher and lead guitar), Mike Ruff (organist), Robby Coleman drummer), Greg Rob (guitar), Teddy Kynard (bass) and Wesley (vocals and guitar). The band members and their parents enjoyed a weekend reunion several years ago which will remain in these men's hearts forever. Wesley played baritone in the Chester Senior High School band and he graduated in 1970. He also loved to draw and worked as a draftsman for Piedmont Natural Gas in Rock Hill SC, prior to his decision to pursue a full time musical profession. He began a mobile DJ business and played with several groups: The Mixed Dogs, Radio Flyer and Seasoned Critters. He also performed duets and solo. Wes was fluent on acoustic guitar, electric guitar and mandolin. In addition, he also loved to sing.His musical influence was John Lennon. His favorite musicians were Steve Goodman, John Prine, Gram Parsons, the band Poco, as well as all of his band mates throughout his life. Wesley never met a stranger and was a loving caregiver for his Mother and his older sister Karen. His Mother suffered with Dementia and Karen battled Crohn's Disease‎. He was preceded in death by his parents Margaret Jean Hall Holland and Joseph Wesley Holland Sr.; and sister Karen Holland Keene. Survivors include his sister Susan Holland Miller and her husband Rick Miller, brother-in-law Steve Keene and a niece Jenna Miller Dion. -

Visitation Details

Thursday, February 18th, 2016 6:00pm - 7:00pm, Mill Grove United Methodist Church

Service Information

Thursday, February 18th, 2016 7:00pm, Mill Grove United Methodist Church

Details:

Service Extra Info A Memorial Service will immediately follow Visitation.

Interment Details

Private