Opha Holland

Opha Nelwyn Thurmond Holland was born November 3, 1925 , the third child, to Lena Beatrice and Guy Thurmond in Elderville, Texas. She attended Ned E. Williams School and later graduated from Bishop College. Opha returned to her former high school to teach after graduation. She moved to Houston in approximately 1952, began her teaching career with Houston Independent School District at Burrus Elementary and graduated from Texas Southern University with Master's degree in education. Opha married Robert Merrell Holland May 10, 1958. They had one daughter, Verhonda , June 23, 1959. Opha continued to teach kindergarten and first grade for the next thirty years until she retired in 1984 from Red Elementary. She was a patient and compassionate teacher who left a positive influence on all of her students. Opha and Robert joined St. John's Presbyterian Church in 1983 and were long time active members. She loved to travel and spend time with her grandchildren. Opha is preceded in death by her parents, Guy and Lena Thurmond, her two sisters, Cornell Hillburn and Verdean Goodlow, and her husband Robert. She is survived by her daughter, Verhonda Wiltz, grandchildren Christopher and Kelsey Wiltz, her sister Lorene Blackshure and many nieces, nephews and other family members.