John David Holly

John David Holly, a dedicated and talented artist, poet, arts advocate, and dreamer, passed away on December 2, 2024, in Lebanon, Ohio, at the age of 68. Born on December 1, 1956, in Baltimore, Maryland, John devoted his life to the artistic community of Frederick, Maryland and shared his passion for the arts with everyone with whom he interacted. 

John graduated from Governor Thomas Johnson High School and furthered his education at Frederick Community College. For over forty years, John worked in Environmental Health Services at Frederick Memorial Hospital. 

In the late ‘90s, John gave the gift of life to his father, Charles (Chuck) Holly by donating one of his kidneys. At the time, transplants from living donors were unusual, but his gift extended his father’s life, preventing him from going on dialysis. 

John was a self-taught artist. John believed that anybody can draw, paint, sing, and dance…maybe not in the academic form, but in a form that comes from the heart and soul. He owned a studio in Frederick, known as the Spirit Gallery, a space that showcased his talent and that of other local artists. He had art displayed in the New York Outsiders Art Fair, as well as in many other Baltimore and Frederick exhibitions. 

John's writing, oral performances, and artistic expressions led some to call him the unofficial poet laureate of Frederick, a testament to his deep appreciation for all forms of art. He commonly performed at places like Brewer's Alley, The Frederick Coffee Company, and the Artists Gallery. He was best known for special readings of “The Raven” and “The Night Before Christmas,” as well as his own work, “The Blues.” He devoted much of his life to fostering the progression of the arts, reflecting his belief in the transformative power of creativity. 

John also had a passion for traveling throughout Europe and the U.S. His exposure to architecture, museums, and lectures from these journeys influenced his art and writing. 

Family played a vital role in John's life. He cherished his relationships with his siblings: Benjamin (Julia) Holly, Ruth (James) Fenton, and Thomas (Paige) Holly. He held a special place in his heart for his nieces—Melissa (Nate) Keer, Erin (Alexis) Fenton-Pereira, Megan (Ryan) Lee, Abigail Fenton, Emma Holly, and Margot Holly. He valued his family time greatly. 

John was preceded in death by his father, and his mother, Susan (Edward) Rosenstock Nolan. His legacy of creativity, love for family, and commitment to the communities he lived in will be remembered by all who knew him. John leaves behind a profound impact on Frederick’s artistic community, a lasting tribute to a life well-lived. 

The family is planning for a celebration of life in Spring 2025 in Frederick. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s behalf to Otterbein Lebanon SeniorLife Community.