10/15/2025
Today marks the end of a life and celebrates the fullness of one—a life lived in service, guided by faith, and dedicated to the simple yet profound belief that we are called to leave our corner of the world better than we found it.
Jim Holland understood something that too many in public life forget: that service is not about power or position, but about people. For nearly eighteen years, he carried the trust of the Dale District with the same steady hand and gentle spirit that defined everything he did. Whether as chairman guiding the county through crisis, or as a neighbor listening to concerns at a community meeting, Jim remained what he had always been—a servant, in the truest and noblest sense of that word.
When the storms came—and they did come, from the Great Recession to the pandemic—Jim did not waver. He drew upon his experience as an Army veteran, his expertise as a CPA, his wisdom as a teacher, and above all, his faith in God and his neighbors to chart a steady course. He knew that in our darkest hours, what people need most is not grand speeches, but calm leadership and an abiding belief that tomorrow can be brighter than today.
And brighter it became. Under Jim's leadership, the Dale District flourished. New schools rose where old ones stood. Recreation centers opened their doors. Businesses came, bringing with them jobs and opportunity. But Jim understood that progress is measured not merely in buildings and tax revenue, but in the quality of life of the people who call Chesterfield home. He worked to ensure that the county remained not just prosperous, but good—a place where families could build their futures and neighbors could know each other's names.
There is a passage Jim surely knew well: "Well done, good and faithful servant" for he routinely and publicly gave thanks—to God, to his colleagues, to county staff, and above all, to the people he served. That is the measure of the man.
To Judith, his beloved wife of fifty-two years, whom he called his "First Lady of the Dale District"—your steadfast love sustained him through every challenge and triumph. You were his rock, and in your devotion was reflected the depth of his character.
To Jessica and James Matthew—your father's legacy lives not only in the buildings and programs that bear his mark, but in the example he set. He showed us that integrity and compassion are not weaknesses in public life, but strengths. That listening is as important as leading. That faith in God and faith in people can move mountains.
Jim Holland believed in Chesterfield County. He believed in the Dale District. Most of all, he believed in the people. And because he believed in us, we became better. Our schools improved. Our economy grew. Our community strengthened. Not through his efforts alone, but through his ability to bring out the best in those around him.
Jim would not want us to linger long in sorrow. He would want us to get back to work—the work of building Chesterfield, strengthening families, serving our neighbors and empowering a brand of politics that is practical, honest and humble. He would want us to do what he did: to show up, to listen, to care, and to act with integrity.
Even as we mourn today, I want to also give thanks. Thank you Jim for you friendship. Thank you for a life of purpose. Thank you for leadership that uplifted rather than divided. Thank you for proving that public service, at its best, is simply love of neighbor made practical.
Jim Holland fought the good fight. He finished the race. He kept the faith. And now, his work on this earth complete, he rests in the arms of the God he served so faithfully.
May God comfort those who loved him. May God bless our County he served so well. And may God grant us the wisdom to follow the example of this good and faithful servant.
It was a pleasure serving with you.
Well done, Jim. Well done.
-Chris
