Rhonda Jayne Holland

Rhonda Jayne Holland (formerly Daniels), a beloved member of the Meadville, Pennsylvania community and later Columbus, Ohio community, passed away on February 9, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, creativity, and resilience. Born in Meadville, Pennsylvania on July 23, 1949, Rhonda was the cherished daughter of Malcom Daniels and Birdie Butterfield, both deceased.

Rhonda's journey began at Meadville Area Senior High School where she laid the foundation for a life filled with learning, exploration and entrepreneurship. Her interest for law led her to pursue a career as a Legal Secretary. Rhonda was also a cashier where her sharp mind, dedication and welcoming personality shone brightly.

Never one to shy away from new adventures, Rhonda delved into the culinary world, honing her skills in the Culinary Program at Crawford Central Vocational Technical School, Meadville, Pennsylvania. Her culinary creations were a testament to her creativity and love for bringing people together around delicious food.

Rhonda Jayne Holland's commitment to community service and her passion for culinary arts converged beautifully in her 20-year involvement with the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Community Dinner. This annual event, held in honor of Dr. King's legacy of justice, equality, and service, became a cornerstone of Rhonda's dedication to fostering unity and understanding within her community.

Rhonda Jayne’s faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and inspiring her to serve others with boundless compassion and devotion. As a steadfast member of United Faith Fellowship Church of God of Meadville, Pennsylvania and later at Second Community Church, of Columbus, Ohio. Rhonda's commitment to her faith extended far beyond the pews, as she immersed herself in various ministries and outreach programs.

Her dedication to nurturing the spiritual growth of the youth within her community was unparalleled. As a mentor and role model, Rhonda devoted countless hours to serving as a beacon of hope and guidance for young people navigating life's challenges. Through her unwavering support and encouragement, she instilled in them the values of faith, integrity, and perseverance.

Rhonda's passion for music and her deep love for worship led her to serve as a youth choir director, where she infused every note with reverence and praise. Her leadership and musical talents inspired others to lift their voices in harmony, creating soul-stirring melodies that echoed throughout the sanctuary.

In addition to her role as a choir director, Rhonda's ministry extended to the realm of banquet services, where she orchestrated gatherings that celebrated the bonds of fellowship and community. Her culinary prowess transformed ordinary meals into feasts fit for royalty, leaving a lasting impression on all who partook of her creations.

Rhonda's involvement in the ministries of worship and praise dance, outreach underscored her commitment to serving others with love and compassion. Whether she was leading congregants in heartfelt worship, using the art of dance to convey messages of hope and redemption, or distributing food and clothing to those in need through the church's pantry programs, Rhonda's actions spoke volumes about her selfless dedication to uplifting the lives of others.

Her service to the community extended far beyond the walls of the church, as she embraced every opportunity to extend a helping hand to those in need. Rhonda's heart overflowed with generosity, and her compassion knew no bounds. She embodied the true essence of Christian love, embodying the teachings of Jesus Christ through her actions and words.

Rhonda was blessed with two marriages, first to Robert Smith and later to Walter Kelley Holland. Together, they shared a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Rhonda was a devoted mother to her children, Dr. Shon D. Smith, EdD of Greensboro, NC, Quintawna L. Montgomery, her husband Robert, Pastor Brian K. Holland, his wife Shannon both  of Columbus, OH. She found immense joy in nurturing and supporting them through life's journeys.

The light of Rhonda's life was her grandchildren: Joshua D. Smith of Jacksonville, FL, Josalynn N. Smith, Noah M. K. Smith, both of Cincinnati, OH, Makala Trayer-Sheldon of Erie, PA, Quaylyn N. Hairston, Sydney E. Hariston, Elijah Holland, and Noah Holland all of Columbus, OH. She treasured every moment spent with them and reveled in the joy they brought to her life.

Described by those who knew her as creative, giving, real, entrepreneurial, strong-willed, and smart, Rhonda's presence left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. She had a zest for life that was contagious and a style all her own. Her spunky spirit and resourcefulness endeared her to many, and her honesty and integrity were unwavering.

Rhonda had a passion for good food and good company, and she embraced every opportunity to share a meal and laughter with those she loved. Her entrepreneurial spirit and strength of character were an inspiration to all who knew her.

In the wake of Rhonda Jayne Holland's passing, her legacy of love and family endures through a diverse and deeply cherished group of survivors. Alongside her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, Rhonda is survived by a constellation of relatives who enriched her life with their presence, support, and shared experiences.

At the heart of Rhonda's extended family is her beloved stepmother, Irene Settles of Pittsburgh, PA, whose gentle presence and unwavering kindness provided a beacon of comfort and companionship throughout Rhonda's life. Irene's steadfast love and nurturing spirit served as a guiding light, fostering a sense of belonging and warmth within the family circle.

Rhonda's step-siblings, Elaine Davidston and nephew Duane Greene, Gayle Young and her husband John all of Pittsburgh, PA, nephews, Jordan Young, Nicolas Young both of New York City, and brother Derrick Davidston of Pittsburgh, Pa, were not only kin but also cherished confidants and companions on life's journey. Their enduring bonds of friendship and mutual respect enriched Rhonda's life, offering solace and laughter during both joyous celebrations and challenging times.

In addition to her step-siblings, Rhonda's family includes her Uncle, Joseph Daniels and his wife Judy of Port St. Lucie, Florida. Half-siblings Tricinda Rochelle Hill of Beaver Falls, PA and Marcus McFerren, MD, PhD, his wife Miriam Gohara, Esq., her nephews Amir Malcolm Gohara McFerren and Marlon Xavier Gohara McFerren all of Woodbridge, CT whose presence added depth and diversity to the tapestry of their shared heritage. United by blood and bound by love, they stood together as a testament to the enduring strength of family ties.

Rhonda's cousins, including Carol and Leige Lindsey, Leandra Armond and his wife, Sarah, all of Meadville, Pa and numerous other cherished relatives, formed a vibrant network of support and camaraderie that spanned generations. Through shared laughter, tears, and memories, they created a tapestry of love and connection that wove its way through the fabric of Rhonda's life.

Together, Rhonda's survivors embody the essence of family: a source of love, strength, and belonging that transcends distance and time. As they gather to mourn her passing and celebrate her life, they find solace in the enduring bonds of kinship that unite them and in the precious memories they shared with Rhonda. May her spirit of love and unity continue to inspire and uplift them in the days ahead, serving as a testament to the power of family and the enduring legacy of a life well lived.

Friends may call at United Faith Fellowship Church of God, 561 State Street, Meadville, Pennsylvania, on Friday, February 16, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and are invited to homegoing services at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Beverly Williams officiating. To send flowers or make memorial contributions, send to United Faith Fellowship Church of God.

The service will be livestreamed via the funeral home's facebook page. (Stephen P. Mizner Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc.)

Rhonda will be laid to rest in Greendale Cemetery, West Mead Township.

Arrangements are under the direction of STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC. 404 CHESTNUT STREET, MEADVILLE.

Share a memory or condolence at www.miznerfuneralhome.com