Saturday, October 01, 2011

Jake's Obituary

My nephew passed away on Thursday, September 29th. While we are overcome with sadness over the loss of a dear family member, we are so thankful he is out of pain. His passing was peaceful and we are comforted by the knowledge of eternal families and the Plan of Happiness.


Sam talked to Jake's mom, Rose, this morning and she wanted to be sure I expressed her heart-felt thanks to all those who have been so generous towards her family. Many of you don't personally know Jake's family but your prayers have been felt and have helped ease the burden of their trial. Thank you so much! --Carrie



Jacob Charles Holladay




Born April 19, 1991, in Salt Lake City, Utah with his best bud, John Matthew Holladay. He was one of 5 boys in the Holladay family. Those left behind are his parents, David Owen and Rose Sweet Holladay, brothers Zachary, John, Michael and Spencer Holladay…and their dog, Molly. Best friends that were like brothers from other mothers…Austin Buchanan and Kyle Joyner.


Jake returned to his Father in Heaven on September 29, 2011...a joyous day for him…a sad day for us. So happy he is finally free from the awful pain that came with cancer…but we will miss him more than we can express in words.


Jake was diagnosed with cancer on June 15, 2010. Later we learned it was called Rhabdomyosarcoma (we never heard of it either!) He started chemo in July, radiation in August, surgery the following June, endured many pokes and pricks and lots of sick days and hospital stays. He was just applying for college when it all started. Too sick for school or work, he spent his last year recuperating and enjoying life as much as he could.


As bad as cancer is…the tender mercy it provides is time to say good-bye, time to make more loving memories, time to serve and love, time to laugh, time for extra kisses and hugs, time to bond and seal in our hearts the love and memories we have of Jake.


Jake lived only 20 short years. He loved to laugh and make others laugh. He was a good listener to all of his “girl” friends. He loved being in the mountains, four wheeling, fishing, hacky sack, shooting with dad, paintballing, laser tag, golf, gaming sleepovers…hanging with his bros and buds and pretty girls. Jake would meet friends all over the country through gaming…of course he liked the girls the most. He was always texting them and helping them through their challenges. Jake was known for being a great friend.


Those who preceded him in death are his Grandpa, John C Holladay, Uncles John and Don Holladay, cousin Thomas Sweet, most recently a favorite great Uncle Jack Bailey…and a cat named Tigger (but we didn’t tell him he died, we just said he ran off! Maybe he knows now!)


Jake, your little hand prints are in stone in the garden.


I’m sure there are more handprints on the walls downstairs…and your love is imprinted in our hearts…forever. Thank you for loving us and making it easy for us to love you. You are one awesome Holladay! We are proud to call you brother, son and friend! Our love will always transcend the veil of this earth. Thank you for watching over us as we try to find our way without seeing you around…without feeling your hugs. Peaceful journey, my son.



Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 4, 2011, 11:00 a.m. Viewing October 3rd, 6:30-8:30 p.m. 1200 East 2178 North, Lehi, UT

1 comment:

Shaunab said...

Carrie, I have been reading about Jake and following his blog and am so sorry for your loss. Your family is in my prayers.