Obituary of Douglas Charles Holliday

It is with profound sadness that the family of Douglas Charles Holliday announces his passing. Doug was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose infectious laugh and generous spirit left a mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Born and raised in St. Marys, Ontario, Doug's life was shaped by family, community and connection from the start. Doug was born into a loving family, and had many fond memories of his early childhood before his mother passed and the family was separated. A defining chapter came in grade 12 when he was welcomed into the Graham family; a bond that became one of the great gifts of his life, and one he cherished until his final days. He went on to attend the University of Guelph, earning both his bachelor's and master's degrees in Agricultural Economics, before building a successful career in finance.

Doug gave back as naturally as he breathed. His years of dedicated service to the St. Marys Hospital Foundation reflected a man who understood that a community is only as strong as the people willing to support it. He brought that same energy to everything he did whether he was behind the wheel of a fast car, holding court at breakfast with his close friends at the Sunset, or sharing an ice cream cone with one of his many grandchildren.

Doug is survived by his beloved wife Barbara (Pfaff), and his children, Chris and Marla, Jenny and Brad, Jim and Allie, Matt and Erin, Ashley and Dan, Courtney and Ben, and his grandchildren, Braedan, Turner, Brooklynn, Max, Ruby, Hazel, James, Katie, Charlotte, Violet, Weston, Ellie, Jolee, Louisa, and Harvey.

He is lovingly remembered by his adoptive Graham family: Mark and Karen, Scott and Laurie, Jeff and Kathy, Sue and Bruce, Steve and Kelly, Laurie and Mark. Cherished by his siblings, Liz and Bob, Jim and Gail, Les and Jackie, Marilyn and Kevin.  Dearly missed by Larry and Cathy Pfaff. 

He was predeceased by his father Ernie Holliday, his mother Mary Cappa, and brother Ernie. Predeceased by his Graham family members Tom and Evelyn Graham, Bill and Janet Graham, and Thomas Graham.

Doug's laugh was the kind you could hear across a room and never forget. He will be deeply missed.

A celebration of Doug's life will be held in the COMMUNITY HALL  AT THE PYRAMID RECREATION CENTRE, 317 James St. S. St. Marys, on Saturday May 23rd, 2026,  from 1 - 4pm with Words of Remembrance at 2:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the St. Marys Healthcare Foundation would honour his memory.