Sanford Holland

Obituaries

Wednesday, 15 September 2021 05:59

Dr. Sanford “Sam” Hunter Holland of Scottsboro passed away on Monday, September 6, 2021 due to complications from COVID. Scottsboro Funeral Home will be in charge of arrangements for a private family funeral.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mary Ann Holland; daughter, Julie Griggs; son, Alex (Betsy) Holland; grandchildren, Holland Griggs, Tess Griggs, Annie Holland, Elle Holland, Drew Holland; brothers, Ralph Holland, Paul (Sherry) Holland; several nieces and nephews.
Sam was born in Scottsboro on Wednesday, October 2, 1946 to Mattie and Sam Holland. He was a 1965 graduate of Scottsboro High and a 1969 graduate of Auburn University. In 1972, he graduated from the University of Alabama School of Dentistry and went on to have a successful dental practice in Scottsboro for over 40 years.
An active community volunteer in his younger years, Sam spent countless hours as a member of the Jackson County Hospital Board, Goose Pond Board and Jackson County Auburn Club, of which he was a past president. He greatly enjoyed his time as a member of Rotary International and was still regularly attending meetings until the time of his death. Scottsboro First Baptist Church was especially important to Sam throughout his life. He thought of the Worrell Sunday School class as his second family and was an active deacon for many years. When he was younger, he was a teacher in FBC’s children’s ministry, leading RA’s as well as volunteering in the church nursery.
Sam had many interests throughout his life. He especially loved golf and spent much of his time playing both locally and at Shoal Creek, where he was a member. He had a passion for snow skiing in his early adulthood and made many trips to his favorite destination of Beaver Creek, Colorado. He also enjoyed buying and selling cars of all kinds. Anyone who knew Sam knew there were few things he enjoyed more than watching Auburn athletics and cheering on the Tigers.
His greatest soft spot, however, was always for his children. Sometimes called the baby whisperer by his friends because of his gentle and loving ways with children, he was able to soothe almost any youngster. Whether it be his own grandchildren who brought him enormous pride or strangers he passed on the street, children had a natural affinity for him. His heart, especially, went out to little ones he feared might be hungry or in need. For these reasons, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes at alabamachild.org, or to a charity of your choice. Baptist Children’s Homes at alabamachild.org, or to a charity of your choice.