Wendy P. Holland, a gentle soul with fierce strength

SHINGLEHOUSE, Pa. — Wendy Paige Holland, 59, of Shinglehouse, went home to be with her Lord and Savior after a short but courageous battle with cancer. She passed peacefully in the early hours of Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026, at UPMC Shadyside, Pittsburgh, lovingly surrounded by her children and husband.

Although her life was marked by ongoing medical issues, she was better known for her deep love of family, her generosity in serving others, and her unwavering faith in God’s goodness. Her life was a reflection of humble service and sacrifice for the people and places she loved most.

Wendy took pride in serving her church as the Benevolence Treasurer and leading the Prayer Blanket Ministry.

Wendy found joy and beauty all around her, treasuring the simple miracles of hummingbirds visiting her porch, changing her seasonal flags and watching the flowers bloom. She was the glue of her family relationships and her fondest memories were of playing games with her kids (especially Old Maid) and doting on her beloved grandchildren. Her spiritual perseverance and glass-half-full perspective on life encouraged all who knew her.

Wendy is survived by her husband, Gary Bernard of Shinglehouse; her children, Linsey Jimenez, Vogue (Aaron) Bryant, Orion (Kristy) Bernard and Alexander Bernard; her grandchildren, Jacob, Lola, Genesis, Abel, Galilee, Ezra, Barrett and Everett; her mother, Carol Holland; her sisters and best friends, Suzanne (Gary) Young, Gemini (Bill) Cousins and B.J. (Pat) Howard; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, William Holland.

To respect Wendy’s wishes, no formal funeral or public services will take place. We invite you to honor her life by choosing to savor each day with your loved ones with a humble and thankful heart.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Wendy’s name can be made to the First Baptist Church, Operation Christmas Child ministry, P.O. Box 68, Shinglehouse, PA 16748; or to Camp Judson, 398 Holliday Road, North Springfield, PA 16430.

Wendy’s legacy of strength and courage will live on through her family, church, and community.

“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13

Wendy’s family entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Wendy, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.