A respected girls’ basketball coach, Charlie Alexander Holland III, affectionately known as “Lil Charlie,” died on December 20, 2025, at the age of 58, at Pheasant Ridge Nursing and Rehab in Roanoke, VA.
Charlie Holland is survived by his wife of 27 years, Melissa Paul Holland, and two kids, daughter Mariah and son-in-law Nate, and daughter Brooke Holland and son-in-law Jacob Reynolds.
His wife, Melissa, expressed her grief, addressing him as her “best friend and everything. She wrote:
My best friend, my life partner, my everything. You have impacted so many young people. But most of all the love for your family was felt by all of us. I really dont know how to go on without you. It’s hard for me to even breathe. But its not goodbye it’s see you later my love. Save a space in heaven for me. I’ll see you in the morning.
Melissa Paul Holland
He was a beloved grandfather of three grandchildren, Coi Collins, Edyn Reynolds, and Everly Reynolds.
He also leaves behind two siblings, Vincent Holland and Tresita (Christina) Holland, and several nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.
Lil Charlie was preceded in death by his father, Charlie Alexander Holland, Jr., and one brother, Derek Antwon Holland, Sr.
Born January 13, 1967, to Betty Wade Holland and the late Charlie Alexander Holland, Jr., Lil Charlie of 114 Crestwood Court, Martinsville, VA,
He went to Martinsville High School and graduated with the class of 1985.
For many years he worked hard at Georgia Pacific, putting in 26 years there before retiring as a floor coordinator.
What everyone remembers most though, is how he coached kids in Martinsville and Henry County for over 30 years.
Charlie was significantly known as the coach for the Martinsville High School girls’ basketball team, the Bulldogs.
It was Charlie who took them to four state tournaments in a row and built a strong program that people still feel proud of today.
Even after he stepped down as head coach in 2020, he stayed around as an assistant for his sister Tresita and also coached at the middle school.
People admired him because he always worked extra, teaching the basics and putting in time outside of the season.
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Arianna Philpott, his former student, wrote a brief eulogy, writing:
This loss hit me hard yesterday! The first person that persuaded me I would be great at basketball because of my height and speed. The one person that would pick me up for early practices and make sure I always had a ride where I needed to go.
Arianna Philpott
“With endless advice you gave me and you made me tough with thick skin. Thanks for always being real with me. RIP COACH love you forever!” she added.
For those who want to pay respects, a public viewing is scheduled for Friday, December 26, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hairston Funeral Home.
Then on Saturday, December 27, the family visitation starts at 2:30 p.m. and the funeral service begins at 3:00 p.m. at St. Paul High Street Baptist Church on Fayette Street in Martinsville. Bishop Alan Preston will speak.
Whereas the burial will be private just for the family.
For those who can’t come in person, you can watch the service live on Hairston Funeral Home’s Facebook page.
Earlier, the family mentioned people could visit at the home on Crestwood Court starting from Sunday, December 21, between 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. each day, but things changed a bit as plans came together.
During the challenging time, we pray for the strength of Charlie Holland’s wife, kids, extended family, and friends.
Rest In Heavenly Peace, Coach Charlie Holland!
