Longtime state lawmaker Jimmy Holley, who served more than four decades in state government, passed away Monday. He was 80.
Holley passed away at the Elba Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, according to an online obituary from Hayes Funeral Home. Funeral arrangements have not yet been made.
Holley served six terms in the Alabama Senate, from 1998 to 2022, when he elected not to seek re-election. He represented District 31, which includes Coffee, Covington, Dale and Pike counties. Prior to serving in the senate, Holley served five terms in the Alabama House, from 1974 to 1994.
Holley was well liked during his time as a lawmaker, and was thought of as one of the most knowledgeable lawmakers in the senate. He typically mentored several incoming freshmen lawmakers, sharing his knowledge of parliamentary procedure and passing along tips to the new members.
One of Holley’s final pieces of legislation was a bill that imposed stiff fines on anyone who left a pet in a hot car.
Holley also had plenty of admirers at home. The Coffee County Administration Building, located in Holley’s hometown of Elba, now bears his name.
