Normajean Freeland-Holladay

Normajean Elaine Thomasene Freeland-Holladay's peaceful transition from this life occurred on Tuesday, August 8, 2023. Her passing was unexpected and took place at her residence in Washington, D.C., while she was dealing with medical issues.

Born on August 3, 1951, in Washington, D.C., Normajean entered the world as the eighth of seventeen children to the late Thomas and Florence E. Freeland. Raised in Cedar Heights, Maryland, her upbringing was steeped in true Christian values that emphasized the love of God, respect for parents, and a profound sense of love and unity among siblings and family members.

Normajean pursued her education in the public schools of Prince George’s County. She proudly graduated from Fairmont Heights High School in June 1969. Additionally, she furthered her education by attending Montgomery College.

After completing several courses at Montgomery College, she embarked on a professional journey at the Agency for International Development (AID). Her time there instilled in her the valuable skill of navigating challenges, a skill she was grateful for. After dedicating several years to her role at AID, Normajean felt a yearning for change and new horizons. This desire led her to take on the role of secretary at the Small Business Administration (SBA) in Los Angeles, California. It was during this period that she formed lasting friendships with her "LA Girls": Mary, Janice, Shirley, and Darlene.

After her three-year tenure at the SBA, NJ made her way back to the AID in Washington D.C. and rejoined her AID connection (Cynthia, Cheryl, Fern, Gwen, Melita, Shelia, and Tawanna). It was upon her return that she diligently organized her wedding and exchanged vows with her beloved Stanley Holladay on May 9, 1992.

She dedicated an impressive 34 years of her life to the Agency for International Development (AID), where she contributed her talents as both a secretary and a budget analyst. Her dedication and expertise were evident in her role. Additionally, she dedicated another three years to the Small Business Administration (SBA), where her skills continued to shine. These combined years of service reflect her unwavering commitment to making a meaningful impact within the government sector.

In her early years, she became a member of Grace Methodist Church. Later, she joined St. Mathews C.M.E. Church. As she matured, she became a member of Faith United Church of Christ. In recent times, she was a dedicated participant at Sacred Ground and Praise Worship Center, under the pastoral guidance of her brother, Rev. Calvin T. Freeland. Her involvement was widespread, encompassing committee work, participation in various activities and church services, as well as her contribution as a choir member.

Normajean, affectionately known as "NJ," personified a spirit of love and benevolence. Her heart overflowed with devotion to the Lord, her family, and her church community. It's worth noting that she actively participated as a member of the 2015 Livingston-Wilkinson Family Reunion Planning Committee.

Normajean's life was characterized by her active and outgoing nature in every facet. She had a passion for singing, reading, dancing, playing the piano, swimming, and staying active through exercise. The joy of traveling was another aspect she embraced wholeheartedly. Her "Girls Trips" with her sisters LaVerne, Antoinette, and Lamisha were a cherished tradition. These journeys took her across the U.S., Canada, and various Caribbean islands, creating lasting memories. She also shared the love of travel with her "LA Girls." Her vibrant and cheerful personality radiated, making her a true source of delight to be around. Normajean's compassion for helping others was genuine, and she truly relished every moment of her life to the fullest.

Normajean wholeheartedly embraced the role of caregiver for her beloved husband, Stanley Holladay. Their love was mutual, and he reciprocated that affection until his passing on July 18, 2003. In a similar vein, she took on the caregiving role for her cherished father, Thomas Freeland, Sr. Their bond was profound, and he returned her love until his passing on August 17, 2014. Later, when her brother Calvin faced health challenges in April 2022 and required support, the family made the decision for him to move in with Normajean, where she provided care and assistance.

Normajean is now reunited in "Glory" with her dear husband, Stanley Holladay, as well as her loving parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas and Florence Freeland. She is also preceded in passing by her sister, LaVata Wilkinson Hamilton Wood, and her brothers, Thomas Freeland, Jr., Calvin Freeland, Sr., and Jerome Dennis (baby brother).

Normajean's legacy is cherished through a tapestry of cherished memories. She is survived by four sisters: LaVerne Massie (Charles), Antoinette Y. Boyd, Florence Johnson, and Barbara Freeland. Her legacy is further enriched by seven brothers: Carroll Freeland (Cheryl), Carlton Freeland (Annie), David Freeland (Yvonne), Michael Freeland, Jerome Freeland (Cathy), R. Gregory Freeland (Kathy), Retired Col. Jeffrey Freeland (Savena), and Gary Freeland (Fran). Additionally, she leaves behind an uncle, Richard Colbert, a multitude of nieces and nephews, and a wide circle of devoted friends and loving relatives who hold her memory dear.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.fort-lincoln.com for the Freeland-Holladay family.