Gerrie Holladay’s journey from a small community in Oklahoma to a respected leader in Sand Springs exemplifies dedication, resilience, and community spirit. Her life story, marked by hard work and a commitment to giving back, is a testament to the values she embraced from an early age.
Gerrie began her life in the small community of Salina, OK. At the age of 12, her mother and brother relocated to Sand Springs in 1957. Living in the Sand Springs Widow’s Colony, Gerrie learned a valuable lesson from her mother: “do with what you earned until you earn better.” This principle instilled in her a strong work ethic. She started working early, first as an aide at St. John’s Hospital after school, and later on the switchboard at the Sand Springs Home offices. She graduated from Sand Springs High School in the spring of 1961.
After graduation, she moved to the Accounting office at the Home, until she was offered a position at the Sand Springs Railroad. Gerrie dedicated 30 years to the Sand Springs Railway, eventually leaving her position as an Agent. She attributes her ability to “do better, go farther, earn more” to her education in Sand Springs and expresses gratitude to the local civic organizations for helping her “give back” the blessings she and her family received.
Gerrie’s involvement in the Pilot’s Club provided her with knowledge about helping those with brain disorders, a skill that became personal when her husband Fred developed Alzheimer’s. She has served as a Sand Springs City Counselor member and held offices in the Pilot International, American Heart Association, Rotary International, and Women’s Chamber, among others. Gerrie has one daughter and a grandson, all continuing the proud Sandite tradition. Gerrie Holladay is a true “Sandite Enthusiast!”