Gary Wilson Hollen

Retired Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Officer, Mr. Gary Wilson Hollen of Charlotte, NC went to be with his Savior on Friday, August 16, 2024, at the age of 82 after a long but courageous battle with congestive heart failure. Gary, a graduate of Central Piedmont Community College and known to many as ‘Gomer’ served the Charlotte community as a Police Officer for 30 years but most importantly served Jesus by obeying the Great Commission: 

Matthew 28:18-20

“18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Gary was born in Asheville, NC on 12/27/1941 and the son of the late Wilson Burton ‘Slim’ Hollen and Ruby Bell Arrington Hollen. Gary in his early life lived in many different states as his dad, Wilson worked in construction before returning to Boone, NC and later Asheville, NC where he met the love of his life Alice Faye Waddell. They married on July 20,1963 and had two children, Chris and Keith, along with several dogs and cats. 

Gary never met a stranger and used every opportunity to spread the Gospel and how Jesus saved him, changed him and used him to serve others until he was called Home. Gary loved the Lord, his family and would always let you know about both. Gary loved life on this earth but really loved meeting people and fellowship with his family and friends.  Gary was the true meaning of: 

Matthew 22: 37-39

37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’[a] 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

Gary was a member of Hickory Grove Baptist Church in Charlotte, NC and is survived by his wife of 61 years Faye Hollen; son Chris Hollen and wife Esther Hollen; son Keith Hollen and wife Sonja Hollen; Three grandchildren, Justin Hollen, Caleb Hollen and Corban Hollen. 

A Celebration of Life service for Gary will be held at Hickory Grove Baptist Church at a later date. The family would love to have you attend so if you would like more information, please send an email to:  

[email protected]

In lieu of flowers donations in Garys honor can be made to: Hickory Grove Baptist Church, Samaritan’s Purse or Billy Grahm Evangelistic Association.