WILMINGTON — Stephen Carroll “Steve” Holland, a longtime resident of Pender County, North Carolina, passed away leaving behind a legacy of service, entrepreneurship, and deep commitment to his community. He was known throughout Pender County for his dedication to his family, his country, and his unwavering support of working people.
Steve was born on October 31, 1947 to Alexander and Elsie Holland, of Yamacraw, NC, where he spent his childhood before moving to the Forest Hills area in Wilmington, NC.
Steve proudly served in the United States Navy, including service in Laos and Cambodia performing underwater demolition. Following his naval service, Steve returned to eastern North Carolina, where he worked in various trades in the Wrightsville and Carolina Beach areas. Included in his early jobs were bartending, building, boilermaker, retail, as well as many hours of shooting pool, all of which he always credited to him learning about business, finances, bargaining, and perseverance.
In 1981, he founded Holland’s Shelter Creek Restaurant in Burgaw on Hwy 53 east. What began as a small gas station and hunting/fishing supply store grew into a well-known and much-loved local landmark. Over time, Steve would grow that “little store” into a restaurant that would eventually feed thousands of people weekly for forty three years. Holland’s drew patrons from across the region, state and eventually country and became a part of families, traditions, and generational memories. Steve and his restaurant became known not only for its seafood, but also for its welcoming front porch, down home feel, and plenty of available rocking chairs where Steve could often be found welcoming people in with a strong, “Hello There!” The same chairs would also be where he built lifelong friendships through sharing stories, discussing politics, giving away ice cream to children…and occasionally taking a nap in between tasks.
Steve was a man who always prided himself for looking out for the working class and the rural community. With a strong voice and an even stronger presence Steve found himself becoming the voice of many who felt unheard and ignored. Steve possessed a disposition and determination that could not be silenced if he felt strongly about his point to be made or if common sense was being challenged. He believed in fairness, hard work, and standing up for everyday people. Whether through his business, his public service, or a conversation on the porch, he was known for listening closely, speaking plainly, and treating everyone with respect.
His commitment to service extended into local government in 1994. Steve served as a Pender County Commissioner for twelve years, where he was respected for his accessibility, common-sense leadership, and dedication to representing the interests of working families throughout the county.
An avid outdoorsman, Steve found pleasure and peace in a lifetime of hunting and fishing. He was actively involved with the National Wild Turkey Federation and supported conservation efforts connected to the reintroduction of wild turkeys in eastern North Carolina. His passion for wildlife preservation reflected his lifelong love of the outdoors and commitment to protecting natural resources for future generations.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Alexander and Elsie Flora Croom Holland; his daughter, Carrie Holland; and his son, Andy Holland.
Steve is survived by his son Jeffrey Holland and wife, Sydney. Three immensely loved grandchildren Stratton, Kenny, and Reagan Holland; brother, Wayne and wife Barbara Holland. Also left with memories are decades worth of employees of Holland’s who hold fond memories of the “family” they were a part of because of Steve.
Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family here.
