Annette Hollis
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our cherished colleague and friend, Annette Hollis.
Annette joined the Tourism Bureau in 2013 and quickly became a familiar face at the Welcome Center. Her warm spirit and generous heart shone brightest when children walked through our doors – always ready with a smile, a small gift, or a magical tale from our fairy garden. She had a special gift for making others feel welcome.
Known for her creativity, Annette brought joy to every event she helped set up for, her favorite being book signings with Jennifer Niven and Harold Jones. Her passion and kindness made a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Annette’s absence will be deeply felt in our community.
Per the family request, to make a donation in her memory, please feel free to stop into the Welcome Center at 5701 National Road East, Richmond, IN 47374 or mail a contribution to the same address: Attn: Mary Walker Re: Annette Hollis.
We have shared her obituary below and it can also be viewed HERE.
RICHMOND, IN– Virginia Annette Hollis, first child of John and Norma, and big sister to Maria, Mary Beth and Tim, sadly and suddenly passed from this life on May 9, 2025, following a long battle with Type 1 Diabetes.
Born to John and Norma (Black) Hollis in Montgomery, Alabama on April 24, 1956, Annette lived in Troy, Alabama, Pensacola, Florida, Greenfield, Indiana and Henderson, North Carolina, before the family settled in Richmond, Indiana in 1966.
After attending Richmond Community Schools and graduating from Richmond High School in 1974, Annette attended David Lipscomb College (now Lipscomb University) before moving to the Atlanta, Georgia area for many years, spending time with her many aunts, uncles and cousins while working in banking, sales and customer service. After moving back to Richmond in 2009, she worked at First Bank before taking her final job at the Wayne County Convention and Tourism Bureau, from where she had recently retired.
Annette is survived by her parents; sisters, Maria (Olin) Wiland of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Mary Beth (Mike) Harvill of Clawson, Michigan, and brother Tim (Misty) Hollis of Richmond, Indiana; “Aunt Nette” will also be missed by a small host of nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.
No calling or public service has been planned.
Memorial contributions can be made to the American Diabetes Association (diabetes.org) P. O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116 or The Wayne County Convention and Tourism Bureau (visitrichmond.org) 5701 National Rd. East, Richmond, IN 47374.
Condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at www.doanmillsfuneralhome.com
