Steven Thomas Holly

Steven Thomas Holly, 51, of East Bend, NC, passed away on December 2, 2025, at the W.G. Hefner VA Medical Center, surrounded by the deep love of his family.
Born October 29, 1974, in Plantation, FL, Steve was the son of Thomas Edgar Holly and Kathleen Ann Patrick Holly. He proudly served in the United States Air Force before pursuing his education at the University of New Hampshire and Southern New Hampshire University.
Driven by a lifelong desire to protect, guide, and serve others, Steve devoted the early part of his professional life to law enforcement. He served as both a School Resource Officer and Police Officer in New Hampshire, influencing countless young people and community members during his years of service. He later transitioned into the financial sector as a Financial Advisor and eventually became Vice President of Surveillance Oversight and Monitoring. During his tenure as VP, he earned his MBA—an accomplishment that reflected his determination, discipline, and commitment to continuous growth. Throughout his life, Steve also proudly served as a Mason, an achievement that represented his character, values, and dedication to service.
A passionate martial artist, Steve achieved the rank of Fourth Degree Black Belt, earning the title Master Holly, and found profound purpose in teaching and mentoring. As co-owner of Family Kicks Championship Martial Arts, he helped build a community centered on confidence, discipline, compassion, and personal growth. His students and staff are an extension of his family, and his lessons, both on and off the mat, continue to ripple through the lives he touched.
Left to cherish his memory, in addition to his parents, are his wife, Crystal Holly; his children, Joseph Holly, Ashley Holly, Jade Holly, and Ruby Holly; as well as extended family, close friends, students, and an entire martial arts community who loved him dearly. He leaves behind not only a family, but a legacy of service, courage, and kindness that will continue to guide and inspire.
The Celebration of Life will take place Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 11:00AM at the Robert F. Miller Center, adjacent to Hayworth-Miller Funeral Home, located at 3315 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem, NC 27103.
Summersett and Hayworth-Miller Funeral Homes are serving the Holly family. Online condolences may be made at www.summersettfuneralhme.com and/or www.hayworth-miller.com