OCEAN ISLE BEACH — Eva Mae Bennett Holley, 87, of Ocean Isle Beach, NC formerly of Kannapolis, NC passed away on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at her home following a time of declining health.
Born in Kannapolis, NC on October 20, 1938, Mrs. Holley was one of five children born to the late Lemis Hall and Ethel Jane Lunsford Bennett. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 38 years, Paul J Holley, two sons, Barry Holley and Dr. Eric Holley, a brother, Howard Bennett, two sister, Frances Bennett, and Blondean Harrington.
Mrs. Holley was a retired floral designer and enjoyed sewing, quilting and genealogy. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).
Surviving are her daughter and best friend, Crystal Weatherwax, and husband Wayne of Ocean Isle Beach, NC; a sister, Naomi Shue; a daughter-in-law, Michelle Holley of Lebanon, OH; grandchildren, Tiffany Broadway, and husband Adam, Megan Bonds and husband Chad, Erica James, and husband, Andrea, Josh Holley and wife Tiffney; great grandchildren, Brianna Honeycutt and husband Harlee, Isabell Broadway, Kya Bonds, Cameron Bonds; and three great-great grandchildren, Fearne Honeycutt, Ocean Holley and Sky Holley.
In honor of her wishes, no services are planned.
The family respectfully requests that donations be made in her name to the Brunswick County Historical Society, 5152 New Brittan Loop, NW, Ash, NC 28420, or Brunswicktown Chapter, DAR, 2714 Chadsworth Lane, Southport, NC 28461.
Online condolences are encouraged and may be sent to the family here.
