Frank Edward Hollis

With heavy hearts yet joyful spirits, we celebrate the life of Frank Edward Hollis, who left this world peacefully on April 12, 2026, at the age of 70. Frank was a devoted husband, loving father, brother, uncle, and cherished his friends. He made Winnsboro, Texas, his home after retiring, but his heart forever belonged to Alaska, where he created countless memories, his “True Love”.

Frank was born on September 20, 1955, in Carlsbad, New Mexico and graduated from Carlsbad High School, where he graduated in 1973, then proudly serving in the United States Army from June 1973 to 1977. It was during his time stationed in Alaska that he met and married his beloved wife, Nancy of fifty years, on July 9, 1976, at the end of the Alaska Highway in Delta Junction, a Yankee no less. Frank embraced the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, indulging in his passions for camping, fishing, and hunting.

He worked at Clear Air Force Station as a federal contractor in telecommunications, Frank dedicated over three decades to his career before retiring in 2011. He was a member of Teamsters Union Local 959 and continued to inspire those around him. In 1978, he welcomed his daughter, Jessica, due to work obligations, he did not meet her until she was 10 days old. He was later blessed with two sons, Christopher and James. His nurturing spirit played a significant role in shaping the lives of his children, who grew to become successful and accomplished individuals.

Frank created many unforgettable memories with his friends and family. In the early 1980s, he won a raffle that allowed him to purchase his first boat. His wife, children, and friends joined him in enjoying the beautiful lakes and rivers of Alaska. One of his favorite river camping sites earned the nickname “Pest Bear Slough.” He loved salmon and halibut fishing, and his hunting adventures included bear, caribou, bison, and moose. He harvested a grizzly bear, which remains displayed in the home, and trapped a black wolf, now a full mount in the living room that startles many visitors. Another unique experience came when he purchased a military SUSV tracked vehicle. Over the years, comfort became more important than roughing it in the wild, and he upgraded to large tents with cots and a stove for heat that he called “luxury living.”

In 2013, following his retirement, he relocated to Winnsboro, Texas, having grown tired of the long, cold Alaskan winters, though he always loved returning in the summer months. In his first year, he tried raising beef cattle but quickly decided farming was not for him. He later purchased a pontoon boat and enjoyed fishing at Lake Fork. Frank was a wonderful friend, always willing to help those in need. It was not uncommon for him to rescue someone with a broken-down vehicle in 50 below weather or assist those stranded on the river.

Frank lived life to the fullest, and though his physical presence will be profoundly missed, his spirit will forever dwell in the hearts of his loving wife, Nancy; his sons, Christopher Hollis & partner Kaira Palaniuk; and James Hollis; his sisters, Patricia Hollis, Linda Lunsford & husband Danny Lunsford, Gay West & husband Rocky West, and Sherry Lynch & husband Bill Lynch; brother-in-law Tommy Ray & wife Cindy, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and all who were blessed to know him.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald & Ruth Hollis; his daughter, Jessica Hollis; and his brother, John Hollis; niece; Beth Brininstool.

In July, Frank’s ashes will be lovingly spread at his favorite fishing and hunting spots in Alaska and Texas, honoring the places he enjoyed most. A family gathering will follow in September, where stories will be shared, laughter will abound, and Frank’s legacy will be cherished.