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The Lee County community is remembering the life of Patricia Ann Speaks Holland, fondly known as Pat, who passed away on Friday, December 19, 2025, in Oxford, at the age of 70. Her passing marks the loss of a woman remembered for her warmth, dedication to family, and simple joys that brought light to those around her.
Born on June 14, 1955, at Fort Benning, Georgia, Patricia was the daughter of the late Thomas E. Speaks Sr., an Army veteran, and the late Shirley “Nell” Nelson Speaks. She graduated from Mooreville High School in 1974 and spent the majority of her life in Lee County, where she built lasting relationships and a reputation for being personable and kind-hearted.
Patricia devoted many years of her working life to Waste Management and later to the security field, where she was employed with Sansone Security. Outside of work, she found happiness in quiet moments—enjoying books, playing games like Yahtzee and Rummikub, and spending time talking with loved ones. She was especially fond of her cat, Angel, who was a constant companion.
Family meant everything to Patricia. She is survived by her son, Joe Gurley (Sara) of Shannon; her grandchildren, Dakota David and Savanna David; her brothers, Scott Speaks (Brianne) of Steens, Mississippi, and Tom Speaks Jr. of Tupelo; and her sister, Mary Kay Thomas of Booneville. She also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will cherish her memory.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband and the father of her son, Rickey Gurley; and her husband, Ricky Holland.
A graveside memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Eggville Freewill Baptist Church Cemetery in the Eggville Community. A celebration of life service is scheduled for Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at the Palmetto Fire Department. Holland Funeral Directors of Tupelo is honored to serve the family.
As friends and loved ones gather to celebrate Patricia’s life, she will be remembered for her love of family, her lively conversations, and the gentle spirit she shared so freely. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched.