Remembering the late John W. Hollis

Sixty balloons were released into the air in front of the Pike County courthouse Wednesday, Jan. 21 to mark the 60th birthday of the late John W. Hollis, chair of the development authority and founding member of the United Men of Pike for Progress.He was also a key organizer of the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day events.Hollis’ wife Priscilla, family members and friends stood holding balloons in a rainbow of colors as the Rev. Travis Ferguson marked the occasion with prayer. Hollis’ brother Marvin thanked those who turned out for the event.On the count of 60, the helium-filled balloons were released simultaneously. A reception followed at Mt. Hope Baptist Church.Hollis, who was 59, died Sept. 12, 2008.