Hollis Edward Beers, born December 24, 1927, in Vanceboro, Maine to Walter and Margaret (MacDonald) Beers, was a steadfast and dedicated man who served his country with distinction and his community with dedication. Hollis, affectionately known by his friends and family as Holly, passed away on December 10, 2024, just shy of his 97th birthday. His life was a testament to unwavering commitment and love for his family, his country, and his beloved hometown of Vanceboro.

Holly's life was marked by service and dedication. While still in high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during WWII, serving in the Gunnery Division aboard the USS Kearsarge aircraft carrier. Upon returning home, he graduated from Vanceboro High School in the Class of 1947. Love soon followed, and he married the love of his life, Helen Short, on February 16, 1949. When the Korean War broke out, Holly's dedication to his country led him to re-enlist in the U.S. Navy, serving aboard the gasoline tanker, USS Noxubee.

After the war, Holly returned to Vanceboro and purchased Dudley’s General Store in 1952, which he renamed Holly's General Store. He ran the store with a strong work ethic and dedication until his retirement in 2005, when his son took over the business. Holly will be remembered for his steadfast commitment to his country and town, his love for fishing and gardening, and his unwavering work ethic. He was a respected member of the American Legion and a proud resident of the Vanceboro community. In 2012, Holly was the recipient of the Boston Post Cane.

Holly was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Margaret Beers, and his beloved wife, Helen; his daughter Linda Weymouth; a sister Margaret Vernon; and four brothers, Cecil “Zeke”, George, Raymond “Fuzzy”, and Murray “Babe”. Surviving are three children, David Beers and wife Cathy of St. Croix, NB, Danny Beers of Vanceboro, and Michael Beers of Princeton; son-in-law Bill Weymouth of Augusta; six grandchildren, Mark Weymouth and wife Melissa of Rozet, WY, Taniel Weymouth of FL, Holly Lynn Beers of McAdam, NB, Amanda Cleghorn and husband David of Ontario, Ryan Beers and wife Mikayla of Baileyville, and Shaye Beers of Baileyville; ten great-grandchildren; a great-great grandson; special nephew Herbert Vernon of Brewer; and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Holly’s Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by Mays Funeral Home & Cremation Services.