Sandra Holliday

In loving memory of Sandra (Sandy) Holliday, a cherished resident of Las Vegas for 60 years, who peacefully passed away in her sleep on December 26, 2023, at the age of 88. Born on December 4, 1935, in Muscatine, Iowa, to Margaret and Levi Smull, Sandy's life was one of resilience, joy, and immense contributions.

Growing up in Muscatine, overlooking the Mississippi River, Sandy reveled in the beauty of her big family home, surrounded by parents, grandparents, and her younger sister. Inspired by her Iowa roots, she pursued a passion for nutrition and dietetics, graduating from Iowa State University in Ames with distinction.

Her career as a Registered Dietitian & Food Service Executive took flight after a transformative year-long internship in Seattle, Washington. Sandy's commitment to excellence led her to a 38-year tenure at Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center in Las Vegas, where she retired as the Clinical Director of Dietetics & Food Service.

Sandy's love story with James (Jim/Hap) Holliday, a fellow Muscatine native, unfolded into a beautiful family. They had three daughters, and the Holliday family found their home in Las Vegas, drawn by the warmth and sunshine.

Sandy's retirement years included consultancy with the International Food Service Executives Association. As an evaluator of Military Food Service Operations, she traveled with the Army, Navy, Coast Guard and Marines throughout the United States, Italy, Japan and Korea.

Personally, Sandy traveled extensively with family and friends to Italy, Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, French Polynesia, New Zealand, Australia, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary and Alaska. Most recently, she enjoyed a grand celebration of her 88th birthday with her family and friends in Seattle.

Devoted to community service, Sandy dedicated her talents to the historic Las Vegas Mesquite Club when she was an active member, officer, and Board Member.

Sandy and her husband Jim were Charter Members of the University United Methodist Church which was founded in 1966. UUMC was an influential and spiritual center of Sandy’s life, and that of her family where lifelong friendships were made and significant family life events were experienced. She contributed her musical talents to the choir and handbells, exemplifying a life of faith, fellowship, and love.

Sandy's impact extended beyond her professional and community endeavors, encompassing cherished friendships and meaningful family moments. Her contagious joy and vibrant spirit defined her remarkable 88 years. 

Sandy was preceded in death by her husband James and her youngest daughter Barbara. Sandy is survived by her daughters Diane & Debbie; sister Susan; sons-in-law Mike, Bill, Francisco; granddaughter Olivia, & her husband Cory; nephew Sean & his wife Tianna; grandnephew Samson and grandniece Selena.

A Visitation for family and friends will be held on Sunday, January 7, 2024, from 1-3 pm at Davis Funeral Home & Memorial Park, (6200 S. Eastern Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89119). A private burial service will follow. 

A Celebration of Life Service is planned for Saturday, February 17, 2024, at 11 am at University United Methodist Church, (4412 S. Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89119). 

In honoring Sandy's legacy, we remember her with gratitude, love, and the indelible imprint she left on all our hearts.