David Scott "Scotty" Holland

1931 - 2013

David Scott "Scotty" Holland obituary, 1931-2013, Houston, TX

David Holland Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 7, 2013.

David Scott "Scotty" Holland passed away on Saturday, the 5th of January 2013, in Houston, at the age of 81.

Scotty was born on the 26th of March 1931 in Havana, Arkansas, the second of six children to Mae Elizabeth Scott and William Dewey Holland. His family moved to Abilene, Texas in 1946 where he met his high school sweetheart, Jacque Nell Hunter, the love of his life, soul mate, best friend, uniting in marriage in 1952. Scotty and Jacque Nell had the first of their two sons, David Scott Jr., in 1953 while stationed in Biloxi, Mississippi. Their second son, Terrence Hunter, was born while Scotty was attending the University of Texas at Austin.

Together, the two traversed life's passages. Many evenings and weekends were shared as volunteer, supervisor/leader of cub scouts, boy scouts, PTA suppers, coaching of Pee Wee sport programs, bible school teachers and most of all ensuring the nurturing of their two children in ethics, integrity, and perseverance. Christian principles were taught and practiced with not only their children but friends and associates.

Scotty always had a strong commitment to excellence and never tired from achieving self-imposed goals. After graduating from Abilene High School in 1949, where he was the first recipient of the Thornton Award, presented to the school's best athlete, Holland enrolled at Hardin-Simmons lettering in football. He credits the development of his competitive nature to having played football under Coach Warren Woodson and has been known to say "teams are made up of players and leaders, and in most cases, unless a player is able to follow, he will never lead."

In 1951, Scotty enlisted in the United States Air Force to serve his country after North Korean hostilities began. He served as an airborne radio operator aboard a B-25 Mitchell aircraft.

Following his military service, he entered the University of Texas at Austin, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology in 1957. Scotty's early professional career, as an exploration geologist, was spent in Midland, Texas, with Marathon Oil Company and Pennzoil Company. Eventually, Scotty guided Pennzoil Exploration and Production Company in the worldwide search for hydrocarbons as President and Chief Executive Officer, also serving as Group Vice President of the parent, Pennzoil Company, before retiring in 1990.

Scotty was a recipient of Hardin Simmons University's Distinguished Alumni Award in 1983, as well as being awarded, by the same university, an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree in 1990. Additionally at Hardin Simmons University, Scotty helped fund the Holland School of Sciences and Mathematics, Holland Medical High School and the future establishment of the Holland School of Health Sciences.

He has established the Hunter-Holland Scholarship at McMurry University in Abilene, Texas, as an endowment for History majors. An endowment at Abilene Christian University, supporting music education, was also established by Scotty and his wife, Jacque Nell.

Most recently, Scotty's support of the University of Texas, his alma mater, cumulated in the construction of the Holland Family Student Center, located at the Jackson School of Geosciences, where he was a major contributor.

He served on the boards of the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Geology Foundation of the University of Texas, Austin, and the Geology Foundation of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists.

Scotty was a devoted father, grandfather and great grandfather to his children, who always came first in his life.

Scotty was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings. He is survived by his sister Mae Rue Hazard of Arlington, Texas; his loving wife of sixty-one years, Jacque Nell; sons, David Scott Holland and wife Dashika of San Antonio, Texas, Terrence Hunter Holland and wife Nita of Midland, Texas; and Scotty's pride and joy, grandchildren Sara Michele Holland, Katie Dyan Holland, both of Ft. Worth, Texas, and Travis Jared Holland and wife Krystal Cathleen; and great-grandchildren, Lyla Grace and Cayson Scott Holland of San Antonio, Texas.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from five o'clock this afternoon until eight o'clock this evening, Monday, the 7th of January, in the library and grand foyer of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston.

A funeral service is to be conducted at eleven o'clock in the morning on Tuesday, the 8th of January, at Memorial Drive Church of Christ, 900 Echo Lane in Houston, where David Duncan and Dwain Evans are to officiate.

The interment is to be conducted at eleven o'clock in the morning on Friday, the 11th of January, at Elmwood Memorial Park, 5750 Hwy 277 South, in Abilene, Texas.

In lieu of customary remembrances, and for those desiring, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contribution's in Mr. Holland's name be directed to the Houston Museum of Natural Science, 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX, 77030; or the charity of one's choice.

"We love you Scotty, Dad, DadDad."

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for David Holland

What is your first memory of David?

Share a favorite memory you have of David.

Tell us about a special moment you shared with David.

Describe a time when David made you laugh or smile.

What is something you will always remember about David?

Talk about a shared experience you had with David.

What is something you did together that you enjoyed?

Describe a place or activity that reminds you of David.

Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving David.

What is something you learned from David?

Not sure what to say?

December 31, 2023

Friend

Sally Owens Lehr

Thoughts and sweet memories of you and Jacque Nell and now David too, are never far away because I keep in touch with Nita and Terry and with Dashika. It is a comfort to me that through them I am still in touch. I am almost 92 years old now, and my days on this earth are numbered, but I look forward to a joyous reunion in heaven

February 1, 2014

Ron Osterhout

What a fine man. My days at Pennzoil with Scotty were very special. He was always full of energy and curiosity. He was a great mentor and he will be missed.

January 30, 2013

Dennis Harrell

JacqueNell, David and Terry:

What a wonderful Man of God with a heart so large you could not imagine. He and your family touched so many lives and made such a positive impact on not only me but many others as well. My great love and respect for hunting and the outdoors, is a direct result of Scotty eagerly sharing his passion for this with me as a young man. I pray that God will wrap you in His loving arms and comfort you through this journey.

January 16, 2013

Gwen Earp

Dear Jacque:
I am so sorry and sad to hear of your loss. Mr. Holland was my very favorite tenant at One Riverway where I was once the Center Manager. He would bring sweet tears of joy to my eyes when he spoke of his love for you and he would say, "We still hold hands" and "I have to get home to make Jacque some lunch" and "I have to go see that precious great grandbaby!" I loved that man. He was the sweetest most gentle soul I know. He will be missed by many.

January 10, 2013

Jack Rodriguez

Many fond memories of my days at Pennzoil under Scotty's leadership and guidance.
A focused, motivated, and caring man, who loved his God, his family, his colleagues, and his friends.
Rest in Peace Scotty!

Jack Rodriguez

January 10, 2013

Laura Liedtke Bucholz

So so sorry to hear of your loss. Scotty was one of our family's favorite people. I have a rug in my house that Scotty brought back from Morrocco, and it always makes me think of him. He will be greatly missed.

January 9, 2013

Cary VanDegna

Our deepest sympathy to your family and friends during this time of grief.

January 9, 2013

Dear Jacque,
Scotty was one of daddy's best friends ever! So many wonderful memories. There was just something about Scotty (and you) that clarified and solidified the existence of God - through the work he did and the love he shared with everyone around him.
I feel certain that Scotty and Roy are up in heaven sharing some long-winded stories, only half of them being true!
Bless you and your family.
Debbie Shourd (Parks)

Posted by

January 9, 2013

Denise and Allen Lazenby

Dear Holland family,
I am so sorry that I did not learn of Scotty's death until after the gathering in Houston. I would have certainly attended. Scotty was one of the kindest men that I ever met.He had a heart for others! I have so many memories of Scotty. He was a true oil finder.

Jacque,
You are in Denise and my prayers. We love you.

January 8, 2013

Debbie Hayes

We have such happy memories of Scotty at our old family reunions at Lake Brownwood. Our hearts go out to each of you.
Debbie (King) & Ralph Hayes

January 8, 2013

Claire Liedtke Alexander

My heart and prayers are with all of the Holland clan. Dad truly loved Scotty Holland and their time spent working together -- not to mention a wonderful friendship.
How funny that our son Cadell, a student at the UTGeoScience program, forwarded an email today sharing the news of your loss and this website.
God bless you all. Thanks for sharing his twinkling smile in the above photo.
Claire Liedtke Alexander

January 8, 2013

William Gipson

Jacque, I so enjoyed speaking with you and Scotty last year in Houston at St. John's during Annie's service. Scotty was infectious with all the kind things he would say about my grandfather and their friendship. I pray you find peace in the love you shared for each other. The Gipson's will be thinking of you all.
-W. E. Gipson III

January 8, 2013

Jeff Milliken

Dear Mrs. Holland,
Please accept our heartfelt sympathies from the Milliken family. Scotty was truly a role model and inspiration for my father Jim, as one of his proteges, but also to me in the early years of my own career as a geologist. I have seen the wonderful Holland family center at UT while recruiting, and even though I was not aware of this generous gift beforehand, the quality and thoughtfulness of the center made me proud to have known Scotty personally. They don't make them like him anymore.

January 8, 2013

So sorry to hear of Scotties death, The Holland family was so special while I was a little girl. I saw Scottie in New Orleans at the lease sale that My husband comducted for MMS. I told him then that I named our son after him (Michael Scott) he was so happy to hear that, Margaret Baker Grant, Russellville, Ark. Ps My brother Charles Baker from Midland Tx and same age as Scottie sent me the article.

January 8, 2013

Jim Easter

Thinking of Scotty Holland brings a smile to my face even after all these years. He coached our YMCA football team beginning in 4th grade where Terry was our QB. We wern't too good but we had fun. It was much later in Houston when our paths crossed again in the energy industry and he immediately remembered me. What a great guy. His was a life well lived and I will always remember his kindness and sincerity.

January 8, 2013

Jacque, i am so sorry for your loss. Seeing you two has always been such a sweet delight when you visited Westgate. Scotty was the nicest and sweetest person and I knew he loved his family and life. You are so loved and I will look forward to your next visit to Westgate. Love, Janice Hill

January 8, 2013

La Voynne Smith

Terry, I am so very sorry for your loss. I remember meeting your Dad at Trend and he was such a nice man. My prayers go out to you and your family. La Voynne

January 8, 2013

Love and prayers to the Holland family from former neighbors and friends in Midland........Bill and Fuffy Green

January 7, 2013

My sympathy to your family during this time of grief.

January 7, 2013

Sandra Ashford

Scotty will be missed!!!! Enjoyed seeing he and Jacque on the morning walks. Your long time neighbors Sandy and (mom) Doris

January 7, 2013

carolyn lenford

Jacque an family I am sorry for your lost I will rember his smile when he come to visit his mother law in abilene tx sears methdist scotty was so nice to me I will never forget him
Love carolyn lenford

January 7, 2013

Hey Sweet Lady,
What a joy and a pleasure to have shared part of your and Scotty's life.
As sure as God promises strength for the day and comfort for the tears, I know Scotty's already up there, seeking out the fluffiest cloud for you and him to spend eternity together.

Beryl Ann & Fred Owen

January 7, 2013

Beth Dufford

The Dufford family has fond memories of this gem of a man. What a blessing to all who knew him! Prayers are being lifted to all those who mourn him. Scott and Beth

January 7, 2013

FRANK OBRIEN

A VALUED CLIENT AND A GREAT FRIEND.THANK YOU SCOTTY
FRANK OBRIEN, (SCHLUMBERGER)

January 7, 2013

Ron Crockett

Jacque, David, Terry and family,
Carolyn and I are so sorry for your loss. I went to work for Scotty at Pennzoil 40 years ago this month, and I will always remember him as a great leader and friend who provided me a wealth of experience. I will always cherish my years at Pennzoil while working for Scotty.

January 7, 2013

Douglas Gaither

As a Director for Gaither Petroleum Corp, Scotty imparted his Christian principles,Oil Field wisedom and knowledge and personal friendship to us many times over the years. He will be truly missed and unreplaceable.

January 7, 2013

Scotty was a gentleman and wonderful person to work for and with at the "Old" Pennzoil team. Ron Osterhout, Altus, Oklahoma

January 7, 2013

Ron Bain

The world has lost a true gentleman. I am honored to have known Scotty and been able to call him a friend.

January 7, 2013

Mike Duggan

What a nice man and true gentleman! This world will miss him. Former Pennzoil employee.

January 7, 2013

Lara Holland

Uncle Scotty's smile will always be an Image in my mind when I think of him. I've always thought my son looked like him. I'm thankful we got to spend time together at the family reunions over the years but especially the one in Texas a few years ago.

January 7, 2013

Kent & Connie Gaultney

Jacque,Terry,David and families,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. I am thankful for and cherish the memories I have though my personal and Trend business relationship with Scotty. We mourn with you in your loss and we celebrate Scotty's life and rejoice in his victory over death. We love you.
Kent and Connie Gaultney

January 7, 2013

Lovey Nichols

I am so sorry for your loss. Ihave missed you two and think of you so very often. Jacque, you and Scott have always meant so much to me for the way you cared for your loved ones like Aunt Jill. I will miss Scott and his humor.
Love to you, Lovey Nichols LVN (SEARS)

January 7, 2013

Scott Bentley

I will always remember Scotty as a true gentlemen and a great Christian example to us all. My prayers go out Jacque Nell and the entire family.
Scott Bentley

January 7, 2013

Vince Guarino

Scotty:

You are far to young to be takng time off now. Lets get back to work. Well maybe not. There aren't many of us from that remarkable Pennzoil team left to get the job done. Working with you was just the best of experinces, you committed and then helped me do my job. And we have it all on film, "POGO", "A Pennzoil Day", big projects by men equal to big ideas. men. Men like you.
Jacque, God Bless you and yours.
Vince Guarino

January 6, 2013

Goodby, sweet Scotty, friend since our high school days in "dear old Abilene High", and loving prayers for by best friend, Jacque Nell, and for David and Terry. As Jacque Nell always signs her letters, "I'll see you on down the road", and as the old hymn goes, "When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be!" With love, Sally Owens Lehr

January 6, 2013

Charles Jay and Pam Parker

Scotty always put joy in our hearts when we were in his presence. We are saddened to hear of his passing. Our love to each of you Charles Jay and Pam Parker

January 6, 2013

William Gipson, Jr.

God bless you Scotty and rest in peace. Thank you for being such a warm and wonderful friend to all us Gipsons over many decades, especially my Dad, Bill, Sr.

Showing 1 - 37 of 37 results

Make a Donation
in David Holland's name

Memorial Events
for David Holland

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Geo. H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Directors

1010 Bering Drive, Houston, TX 77057

How to support David's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor David Holland's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more