17, passed away on Tuesday, February 20, 2024.
Loving daughter of Jeff (Dawn) James and the late Bethany James (nee Monroe); beloved sister of Faith , Brandon James, Kori (Tony Trask) Bonham, Katlin, Kaleb Coffman, Isabella Millen and the late Zaydian Mark; dearest granddaughter of Jim Monroe, Phyllis James, Mary Ward, and the late Mary Monroe; dear aunt of Brayden, Oliver Trask, Addie, Hazel Coffman and Marley James; niece of Richard, Dennis (Jennifer) Ward and Bari (Arthur) Cates; our dear friend of many.
Holly was a member of the National Honor Society. She loved to draw and wanted to be an architect. She loved softball and the friends she made while playing softball.
Visitation Saturday, March 2, 1:00 p.m. until Service 5:00 p.m. at KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL, 10151 Gravois Rd. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Mid America Transplant, 1110 Highlands Plaza Drive East, Suite 100, St. Louis, MO 63110. https://www.midamericatransplant.org/
Words can never express how sorry I am to hear about this. Holly was a true pleasure to be around, and she always made sure to take care of her teammates. She was a great softball player, a great catcher, and an outstanding hitter.
Such a bright light. Sending love, prayers, and healing for the family. ❤️
I don’t know who this person is, but I am so sorry for what you had to go through holly. You were beautiful and you seem so sweet.
Taking the time to complement someone, check up on someone, and more can help in a long way, and you may just make someone choose to live just a bit longer by doing so.
I pray for the family of holly, and I hope holly not only rests in peace, but rests in power, she seemed like such a a strong young lady with great hobbies.
Rip holly, sincerely, someone you don’t know.
Holly was known throughout the select softball community for her tenacity, leadership, and heart. She was always a great teammate. So supportive. So compassionate. She will be sorely miss. Sending our deepest condolences to the James family.
Holly, I’m so sorry it ended the way it did. You’re such a wonderful soul, I’m sorry others didn’t see it the way we did. I’m going to always miss my lab partner, and the person who could make me laugh without trying. I promise you we will always remember, and never forget. I’ll do everything in my power to make sure no one forgets such a wonderful soul as yours. I hope you’re at peace now, sweet girl.
– Maddie
I wasn’t the closest with Holly, but she was one of the most genuine people at AHS! She could make you feel welcome and included anywhere you were. That was the power she had! I’m going to miss her basically doing all the work in construction class (because she was one of the most talented builders), her outstanding notes and dedication in chemistry, and lunch where she would make me feel welcome if no one else wanted to sit with me! AHS, STL, and the world lost a great and beautiful soul yesterday. May she finally rest in peace where she can be herself without anybody making her feel inferior! Fly high 🙌🕊
Holly. Being one of your friends has brought so much light into my life. Spending our class time talking and joking will forever be in my memories. You are one of the best people in this world and if someone says your not, I will do what I can so they can see you are amazing. Because you are. You deserve the world, and I hope you’re in a happier place. A place without the pain you were feeling. I love you so much.
-Katie
Rest easy baby, I never talked to you but I see you everyday at school. And that says enough, I know there are so many people who love and adore you. I wish it didn’t end this way but you’re in a better place now.
I pray for the friends and family of holly, and my heart and prayers go out to you guys, we lost an amazing girl.
I know we never talked nor did you know me, but I love you holly. Rest easy beautiful girl 🤍.
Holly was an amazing person. She was smart, intelligent, and the outstanding woman I’ll never forget sophomore year in English class. She came up to me and asked if I wanted to be her partner because I didn’t have anyone in that class that I knew. Holly will never be forgotten and may God rest her soul in the name of Yashua Amen.
Sending love and support the James family. I cannot imagine how difficult this time is. Although we weren’t close, she was a kind girl. This is truly unimaginable. Sending condolences to the James family.
This breaks my heart. Holly, you are such a kind, caring person. Maybe you didn’t realize how much we all loved you.
i talked to you yesterday morning. we weren’t close but it hurts to see you go so soon, i really wish we had more opportunities to talk. i loved being in the car with you yelling cheesy pop songs and waving at you when i did see you, you were always so kind and caring to those around you. you deserve so much, and im gonna miss laughing with you.
Dear family of beloved Holly,
I understand how incredibly difficult it must be right now. Just know a stranger is praying for you and wishing the best for you. This young lady had such a bright smile. Eyes full of love. She is resting now, and all we have is the future to keep on marching. Best of wishes to everyone of you.
Oh Holly, you don’t know me and i don’t even know you until now but I can’t tell you how sorry i feel for you, your family, and friends, sweet girl. you didn’t deserve that and i hope you’re doing amazing up there, seeing all you’re loved ones up in heaven. I’m praying for you and your family. Rest easy beautiful..☝️🕊️LLH
I didn’t know you personally but we went to school together since we were kids . and it breaks my heart that this happened to you . i pray for you and your family . hope you are at peace now .
Holly was a beautiful person, inside and out. She was smart, funny, and kind. Every time I spoke with her I smiled or laughed. We swam together since our freshman year and she was always so incredibly talented. I fondly remember her showing me how to “softball scream” during our swim meets so that we could be heard over the water. We rode the bus home from school together and we’d talk about whatever was on our minds. She gave me a note on our first day of calculus and I still have it saved in my folder. I hope that she saw how cherished and loved she was and I offer my sincerest condolences to her family. She was wonderful and I will forever miss seeing her face.
Holly brought a smile to every room she entered. Her love for the game of softball was contagious and every player that got to be on the same field as her was better because of it. We will miss her greatly and offer our sincerest condolences to the family.
Every time I was around Holly at softball, she was either putting her all into training, smiling with teammates, or teasing me about something – she left a made a great impression on me. I don’t think I’ve met a nicer family. My heart goes out to Holly’s family, friends, teammates, and her extended softball family. We miss you, Holly.
I love you sweet Holly rip
I originally met Holly in my history class we sat next to eachother everyday. She was always so sweet asking how my day was and always asking if I was doing okay. I hope Holly will be remembered in some way no matter what because she would do the same for anyone else. I hope you are in peace now and with your family.
Holly was such a joy to coach! She asked amazing questions, was willing to try anything, and was always the most supportive teammate. Her love for softball and her teammates was contagious and I don’t know anyone who met her who wasn’t impressed with her. She will be greatly missed. Our entire Naturals community is thinking and praying for her family.
you were the best teammate I could have ever asked for and the best friend I ever had. You understood me like no one else and I loved you for it. You will be forever missed but i’m glad that you are at peace.
We are so so sorry fir your loss . Our prayers and love go to your family. Mary’s friend Vera and Charlie Barry
We are incredibly saddened to hear the news of Holly’s passing. She was such a bright light on the Naturals’ team. Ella loved having Holly as a teammate and especially catching her behind the plate. She was always putting in the effort, funny, smiling, and kind. Jeff, Dawn, and family – our deepest sympathies. We can’t imagine what you’re going through. Holly will be missed greatly!
Holly was an amazing leader, player, teammate, and friend. Holly was a big light in my life and I couldn’t be more grateful. She always knew how to make me laugh or smile and she helped me so much with catching and the rules of the game. I love her more than she would ever know.
I had the honor and pleasure of knowing and coaching Holly since her first year of select softball. And through the years we shared so many great memories and experiences. Needless to say she was a top notch softball player and teammate. She cared so much for her teammates. She always displayed great sportsmanship and was well liked by the umps behind the plate. She was genuine and kind to every teammate, never excluded anyone. More so, she was a great person. Smart, funny, kind, and caring, Holly will be remembered as such. I will miss Holly and my heart breaks for the James family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dawn and Family,
I cannot begin to fathom how you are feeling after this tragedy. Please know that you are not alone and take the time to reach out for a open ear, a shoulder or even for a hot meal. Dont lose faith that better days will come. My deepest sympathies and prayers are with you until you tell me otherwise.
My thoughts and condolences for the James family during this difficult time.
Holly was a great softball player and teammate. she was always so encouraging to me and others. She’s one of the best catchers i have ever pitched too and was an amazing hitter and fielder. she always cared about everyone on my team, including me. she made me laugh, and would make my day so much better. She was a sweet and caring person. I will always remember her and I am sending prayers for her and her family.
May the Perpetual Light shine upon Holly always and may God have your entire family in the palm of His hand.
james family,,,, my heart is broken for your family.. I know she was a beautiful soul great athlete , and a really good hearted girl jeff no words to express my sadness for you my co worker and friend hang in there buddy,, life is not fair buddy!!! my prayers for you whole family>>>> need anything reach out please
Jeff, Dawn, & Family,
We are so deeply saddened for your loss. You are a wonderful family who has faced great tragedy. Our support is with you. Holly was an amazing ball player and competitor. When she was up to bat, we knew she would put on a show! Jeff, you were her #1 fan; she was blessed to have you in the stands. As a parent I thank you and Dawn for always being involved. We will remember the best days of youth softball playing together, all the way up to 16U playing against each other! Sending prayers and love.
Meghan and Olivia Monaco
hello, i did not know holly that well, but we shared some classes in middle school before the quarantine during covid years. holly, you were always so kind to everyone, and to this day i could tell you were loved and cared for by so, so many people. smart, beautiful, talented, and funny. you had such a unique energy that made you so nice to be around. i’m so sorry this happened to you, you deserved so much more, so much more nicer things. i send my thoughts and prayers to the James family, her friends, and anyone else who knew her. holly, i hope you are resting easy in peace now.
I didn’t personally know Holly, but as a parent to a senior at Affton this broke my heart nonetheless. So young with so much life left. She looked beautiful and vibrant and full of life. I am so very sorry for your loss and am sending hugs to all of Holly’s family, friends, teammates and classmates. May you rest peacefully babygirl.
I’m sorry to hear that you lost such a good friend. 🫶
May God grant you strength and peace during this time. We are so sorry for your loss and offer our heartfelt condolences. May God bring you comfort and strength in the days ahead. The James family are in our prayers.
Holly, you had a tough exterior but inside you were always so generous and always set a good example for others. You were such a hard worker in my art class and kept everyone accountable. You made so many beautiful pieces in my class. I will now forever cherish the pieces you allowed me to keep to show future students. Every time I look at them I will remember your dedication to everything you set your mind to. I only wish you could have made your mark on this world a little longer. My deepest condolences to your family. May your memory be a blessing.
I am an educator in the Affton School District not at the high school. However, my heart breaks for Holly, her family and her friends. Baby girl- I hope you are at peace and I am so sorry for everyone’s loss.
Holly, I never thought you would be the one to go first. You are so competitive and that is something that I truly admire about you. Your pep talks at the mound were the best. I’ll never forget stepping on the high school rubber and looking at you smiling ear to ear behind the plate. We both knew that my pitching was going to suck, but it didn’t matter because it was just like we were 10 again, just for that moment. This season we had a lot of ups and downs but you have always been my person. We have had so many good times and you have truly impacted my life in ways I could never describe. You’re my triplet. We grew up together and no matter what state our friendship is in, we are still family. I know I sound crazy talking about you in the present tense, but even though you aren’t physically here with us now, I know that you are still here for us. There are many nights of tears and laughter to come. I’m sharing all the pirate videos and the silly videos and photos from us over the years (hope you don’t mind). I’ll always love you and you will always be my sister. Rest easy Hols.
Love,
Lexi
As a parent of Affton student, my heart breaks for Holly, her family, teachers, and friends. I am praying for the James family, and the students at AHS during this time of grief. May everyone find peace, hope and strength as they remember Holly’s kind and loving spirit.
I never new Holly but I am in the same district so we are all so sad about what happened and we are sending prayers.
I’m a student at AMS and it saddens my heart that we were not aware of this situation. I am praying for the James family, and hoping that the kids at AHS will find peace. Please don’t forget you have a community with you.
Sending love and prayers,
Mia
I was so heartbroken to hear that Holly passed away. I umpired with her at Affton. She was always wanting to learn more about the game. I will miss her smile on the field.
I do not know this family but I live in Affton. May her beautiful smile shine bright in your memories forever. I cannot imagine you pain and loss. So sorry. Hugs.
I was never to close with Holly but she could always light up a room, I had english with her and she was an amazing writer. One of the sweetest people I have ever met in my whole life. The most beautiful smile ever and was always showing it. Sending prayers and love to her friends and family. Rest easy beautiful 🤍
Holly was an amazing girl and was the best teammate to be around. I played softball with Holly for seven years, and I personally know that she was the toughest girl on the field. Her hard-work and determination showed during games. Holly was a strong leader and was always someone I could genuinely talk to. She was such a good person and I am lucky to have been her teammate. I am heartbroken that Holly has passed and I send prayers to her family.
Holly was a beautiful girl and great at softball! . I loved that my daughter got to play with Holly because Holly was a great teammate. I always saw Holly rooting for her teammates and she gave her best each time she caught and swung that bat. I will always remember she would smile at me when she said hello, was very respectful and showed how much she loved her family.. She has great parents and my heart goes out to them.
Holly you were such an amazing girl, I hadn’t talked to you in a while, but I loved seeing you at Affton, you’d always say hello and catch up while we could. You were an amazing teammate and friend and I never felt like I had to change myself around you. you were whole heartedly one of the most genuine, kind, and supportive people I’ve ever met. To the James family, I send my love and know that Holly will not be forgotten and I send so much love.
We are saddened about the passing of Holly. She was such a great softball player and even better teammate. One of those kids that lead the team and never showed her frustrations. Sid loved when she was behind the plate. Many prayers to the James family, we can’t imagine what you are going through. Much love to you guys.
I don’t know you. But a friend told me about you. There is so much to the story no one will ever know. I don’t even know. And yet I read and see you were always a spirit to those around you. You were everything, a light in somebody’s darkness. Kindred, fierce eyes and a big smile. I hope justice will be done in your name. You deserve it after everything, for good souls deserve to be heard.
Holly, I could tell when I first taught you in 6th grade how incredibly intelligent and good-natured you were. When I had you in class again in 9th grade, even after COVID jaded most of us a little, your spark hadn’t dimmed. I could tell you weren’t a fan of my class, and that was perfectly okay because you still did your best – that’s a sign of great character, which is more important than the course content anyway. Maybe you didn’t know how much you were appreciated and admired. The world is a little darker without you.
I knew Holly’s mom (Bethany) for many years was considered part of our family. I did nit know Holly accept as a cchild. My condolences to her grand father (bethany’s dad) and to all the others who cared for and loved her.
We are so saddened to hear of Holly’s passing. Audrey loved playing softball with her on the Dirt Devils years ago, and really was the first group of girls with whom Audrey connected. We loved Holly’s spirit, warmth, and inviting nature behind her tough exterior. We loved watching her play, and she was a wonderful player, teammate, and friend. Our hearts hurt for the James family. The world is a better place for Holly having been in it.
Eric, Suzanne, Audrey, and Ian Pierson
Holly was an amazing softball player. She always gave 110%, and she cheered on her teammates like no other. Our daughter, Kaylee, was so lucky to play beside her. She loved her so much!
Holly, thank you for shining your beautiful light on the lives of so many!
Dawn and Jeff, your family is in our prayers. We are heartbroken.
Holly, I hope you have found peace in the Lord and away from whatever was haunting you. RIP girl. Dawn, Jeff, and family – I cannot imagine what you are going through. Prayers for all of you as you deal with this sudden loss.
Though I only new Holly for a brief moment, I must share. I umpired her last summer at Fenton, and because of her personality, it seemed like we were lifelong friends. Though I’m almost 50 years older, I thought of her as a peer. Her joy of being on the field, being around her ‘mates definitely made her stand out. She was the loudest player on the bench, as well as being the one with the dirtiest uniform, after all, she was a catcher. Every time she played her position in front of me she would say, “don’t worry blue, I’ll take care of you”. Like a shooting star, she was here and left, way to soon. This young lady I will not soon forget.
After attending Holly’s memorial service today, I saw so many people who were touched by her short time amongst us. All of the tears that were shed, all of our hearts that felt like breaking, is nothing more than a genuine, passionate love that you had for her, because in some way, she touched your life. Now, it’s time to “pay it forward”. Smile more, hug more. When you see someone who might be troubled, reach out to them and listen. When you might be in troubled times, reach out as well. Don’t be quick to anger, take a breath before you answer or act. Life is hard, and responding in LOVE, would be the greatest way to Honor the Memory of Holly James.
John 3:16
I tried a number of times to pay my respects on Saturday I just couldn’t do it I was just too upset. Holly was a very sweet girl, always had a smile for me when she was getting her lunch. Heaven has a beautiful new angel now. I would like to leave my condolences to the family. So sorry for your loss
While I didn’t know you personally, your story has touched my heart. I hope you are at peace and can rest knowing just hope much you are loved. ❤️
Happy 18th birthday, Holly.
I think about you every time our class does something. I can’t help but immediately remember that you should’ve been here with us. Graduating in May won’t be the same without you sweet girl. I’m sorry we didn’t show you how much you were loved.
I moved to Saint Louis 3rd grade not knowing anyone. Holly became my first friend, where almost everyday of recess we used to go to the library and put books away. Holly was such a sweet soul, and we stayed friends all up until 8th grade when I moved again. She always put a smile on my face and truly had such a special impact on the people that knew her. Rest in peace Holly.