Mary Jane Holden

Mary Jane Ward Holden, age 78, went to be with her Heavenly Father on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. She was born in Lumberton, North Carolina, to the late Johnny K. Ward and Edith West Ward.

Mary was a feisty, loving woman whose children were her whole world and greatest blessings: Wayne, Lisa, and Cherie (Roger). She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Michael, Dakota, Mary Kaitlyn, Chelsea, Lilianna, and Kianna; a cherished great-grandmother to Cadence, Blaine, Kendall, Tealey Kate, Renley, Noah, Iyla Kate and Amelia Sage.

Throughout her life, Mary dedicated herself to caring for others. She made history as the first female deputy sheriff of Lawrence County, a badge she wore with pride and honor. She later served her community as a school bus driver, where she kept children safe while filling their rides with laughter. As a Certified Nursing Assistant, she continued her calling of compassion and was recognized as CNA of the Year in 2012.

Mary loved the Lord deeply, never met a stranger, and was always ready for a new adventure. She had a heart that welcomed everyone and a spirit that left a lasting impression wherever she went.

Her constant companion and greatest comfort in her later years was her beloved four-legged friend, Zoey, who never left her side and stayed faithfully with her until her final breath.

Mary will be remembered for her strength, her warmth, her unwavering love for her family, and her lifelong dedication to helping others. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and in the family who loved her dearly.

It was Ms. Holden’s wishes to be cremated and a private memorial service will held by the family at a later date.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.