Joseph Stephen Holloway

Joseph “Steve” Stephen Holloway, age 77, passed away peacefully at his home on March 2, 2025. Born in Rome, GA, on July 4, 1947—which should have been a clear sign of the fireworks he would bring to life—Steve was a man who lived large, loved deeply, and never did anything halfway.

He attended Catholic seminary school in Missouri and Texas before returning home to graduate from West Rome High School in 1965 and later from West Georgia College. Knowing early on that he was meant to be his own boss, Steve founded and ran a successful plumbing business in Rome, proving that hard work, determination, and a bit of good humor could go a long way.

Steve was preceded in death by his grandparents and his beloved parents, Robert J. Holloway and Grace Williams Holloway, along with several aunts, uncles, and a nephew. He is survived by his daughters, Erin H. Abbott and F. Grace Holloway, who undoubtedly inherited his independent spirit; his son, Shane Stokes. He also leaves behind his five siblings—Carole H. Lancaster, Emily E. Leffew, J. Patrick Holloway, T. Leo Holloway, and M. Kathleen Wade—each of whom was lovingly assigned a special nickname by Steve, though in the interest of preserving their dignity, those will remain undisclosed.

Steve always had a deep love for the beach, at one point calling Daytona Beach, FL, home before returning to his beloved Lake Weiss when he became ill. While he was known for his larger-than-life personality, one of his most endearing and lesser-known traits was his deep respect and affection for the elders in his life. He made it a point to visit them often, always taking time to listen, share stories, and offer a laugh when they needed it most.

He also had a special passion for his little Chihuahuas, who were always by his side, serving as loyal companions and, quite possibly, his most trusted confidants. They adored him just as much as he adored them—though whether they actually listened to him is still up for debate.

A celebration of Steve’s life will be held on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at Daniel’s Funeral Home from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm. In his honor, please raise a glass, share a story (embellishments encouraged), and remember him not with sadness, but with the same joy and mischief he brought to the world.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you take a moment to visit with an elder in your life, share a joke, or even give a little dog an extra treat—because that’s exactly what Steve would have done.

Though he may be gone, his stories, laughter, and colorful larger-than-life presence will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. And if you hear fireworks on the Fourth of July, just know—it’s probably Steve, still making an entrance.

Daniel’s Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Steve Holloway.