Donald Virgil Hollins

Donald Virgil Hollins was born on May 2, 1961, in Cleveland, Ohio, to loving parents, Donald and Barbara Jean Rogers (Hollins). Donald was the oldest of five children and assumed that role with pride, strength, and a natural sense of responsibility.

He accepted Christ at an early age at Mt. Esther Missionary Baptist Church in Cleveland, Ohio, where he was an active member of the choir. Donald faithfully attended church with his grandmother, Bernice Hollins, whose influence helped shape his spiritual foundation and lifelong commitment to faith and family. He attended Cleveland Public Schools, including Harvey Rice, Garfield, and Bedford schools, and graduated from Bedford High School in 1979. Following graduation, Donald pursued a career in nursing, where he graduated at the top of his class—an early indication of the excellence that would define his professional life. He was a man of many talents, excelling not only in healthcare but also in sports, retail, and food management. Prior to his homegoing, Donald was employed at Northfield Village, where he began as a Registered Nurse and matriculated to the role of Director of Nursing.

He was deeply loved and respected by residents and coworkers alike for his leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to quality care. Don was also a longtime resident of Valleyfield Apartments, where he volunteered as the complex's security guard and overseer, proudly reminding everyone that he was not “just a smart nurse,” but a protector and pillar of the community. He fathered one son, Teric, with Tia Miller. Donald and his son shared a close and loving bond, enjoying quality time together in Cleveland, Ohio, and Connecticut. Some of the most cherished memories with his son were built through shared conversations, laughter, guidance, and moments that reflected Donald’s deep love, wisdom, and pride in fatherhood. Don was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Michael Hollins.

He leaves to cherish his loving memories his son, Teric; brothers and siblings: Roger Williams (Sylvette), Benita Bennett, Howard (Enaena, deceased), Glenn Hollins (Elnora), and Denice Reed (Ernest); and his nieces and nephews: Lakasha Williams, Michael Hollins Jr. (Bailey), J’son Bennett, J’Nae Bennett, Ja’Nia Williams, Jaylen Szymanski, and close cousins who he considered nieces and nephews: Glenn Hollins Jr., Tamara Long, Emmanuel Long Jr., and Deshawn Long. He also leaves behind the love of his life, Keyana Mitchell, with whom he has been together for 30 years, along with close cousins and a host of other relatives and friends, including the Long Family. Don was widely known as a jokester with a quick wit and infectious humor. He proudly answered to a variety of nicknames, including “Lick Um,” “Donner,” Uncle Peanut Butter Brittle Head, (thanks Yennel for that memory) and “Knuck”—short for knucklehead—a name affectionately given to him by his great-grandparents, Ophelia and Alex Durham. Above all, Don’s love for the Cleveland Browns was legendary. He followed his beloved team with unmatched passion, conducting in-depth research, offering thoughtful analysis, and engaging in spirited discussions that showcased both his loyalty and knowledge. Win or lose, his heart remained steadfastly committed to his hometown team, reflecting the same dedication he gave to his family, faith, and community. Donald Virgil Hollins will be remembered for his intelligence, humor, leadership, and unwavering love for those around him. His legacy lives on through his son and the many lives he touched, the laughter he shared, and the example he set.

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