Effie Rose Hollstien
September 13, 1927 - June 6, 2024
Effie Rose Hollstien, born on September 13, 1927, in Stockton, California, passed away peacefully at home on June 6, 2024. She was the beloved daughter of Vivian Hayford and Elwood McKee and grew up in Stockton, where she attended Stockton High School.
After graduating high school, Effie embarked on a fulfilling career, initially working with Poultry Producers and later dedicating her life to early childhood education at the Coretta King Children's Center (Preschool). Her passion for nurturing young minds led her to pursue further education in Early Childhood Development.
On August 26, 1951, she married the love of her life, Jack Hollstien. Effie and Jack temporarily resided in San Luis Obispo while Jack completed his studies at Cal Poly. They then relocated back to Stockton, where their union was blessed with three wonderful children: Jeff, John, and Jana. Stockton remained their home, where Effie became a beloved and active member of her community.
A dedicated and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Effie served on the John R. Williams Elementary School PTA board and was deeply involved in her children's and grandchildren's lives. Her grandchildren, Jessica, Brandon, Gregory, and Cameron, along with her great-grandchildren, Autumn and Luke, brought light and joy to her life.
Effie was a woman of faith, remaining a devout Episcopalian throughout her life. She cherished many wonderful vacations domestic and abroad, enjoyed playing bridge, hosting dinner parties, and reading. Her home was always filled with warmth, love, and delicious meals, especially during happy holidays spent with family and friends.
Despite not knowing how to swim, she enthusiastically participated in adventurous activities such as boating and skiing. She was surrounded by many longtime friends, some of whom predeceased her, leaving behind cherished memories of shared experiences.
Effie was loved dearly by all who knew her and will be deeply missed. Her legacy of love, faith, and dedication to family and community will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known her.
A private graveside service to celebrate her life was held at Cherokee Memorial Park in Lodi, CA on June 19, 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Delta Humane Society/SPCA of SJ County, or the Alzheimer's Aid Society in her honor.
Please leave your condolences below.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Hollstien family.
