Obituaries

Holly Jo (Kimmel) Brooks, 68

January 26, 2023

The sun set for Holly Jo Brooks on January 26, 2023, at the age of 68. Wife to Mark Decker, with whom she shared 20 years and the loving mother of Taylor (Tate) Saunders.

She danced her way into people’s hearts in Chatham, New Jersey in April of 1954, and was the daughter of the late Charles and Ina Kimmel. A 1972 graduate of Chatham Township High School, she was a memorable cheerleader that was loved by many. Following in her mother’s Broadway footsteps, Holly studied with Eugene Louis Faccuito, “Luigi” which was an accomplishment she treasured. She attended the University of Miami where she obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Arts and Human Services. Continuing her passion of dance, she then taught at the University of Miami, Palm Beach Dance Center, and Ballet of Florida, where she focused on classical ballet and jazz. Dance was a legacy for Holly that she would pass on to her daughter and flourish by opening a dance studio where she would go into preschools and teach dance classes to the children. After moving to Pennsylvania, she continued teaching dance lessons to school age children. Dancing was a staple in Holly’s life until a month before she passed.

Her personality was warming, and one that people were drawn to. She had a natural talent for reading people and knowing exactly how to help them. Those who knew and loved Holly went to her often for her insightful advice and tender care.

Her love will live on in her daughter Taylor, wife of Steve Saunders of Lancaster; her bonus daughter, Laura Decker of New Jersey; a brother, Cary Kimmel, husband of Caroline of Rhode Island; nephews, Owen and Duncan Kimmel; and her greatest loves, who affectionately called her “Gigi”, Natalie, Lauren, and Catherine “Katie Jo”.

Close friends and family will be celebrating Holly’s life, July 8, 2023 at 1110 Oakmont Dr. Lancaster, PA 17601, from 1PM – 5PM.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Holly’s name may be made to Hospice & Community Care, or the Friendship Heart & Gallery Studio.

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Condolences to the Family

January 13, 2024

I had just found out about this yesterday. I was dumbfounded, and my heart was broken. For those of you who might not know, Holly was a former castmate of mine in the 20th season of Food Network’s Worst Cooks in America. From the first time I met her, she was a beam of sunshine. She was this sweet, kooky lady with a big heart. No ill-intentions whatsoever. We continued our communication via social media after the show. She would always tell me, “Great things are in store for you, I can see it. Just keep going. You’re in the right path.” Even when things got too busy for me, she would constantly send uplifting and encouraging messages. One day, the messages stopped coming. Though I was wondering why, I never really thought much of it. Now I know why. Oh, Holly. You crazy old woman! You were such a wonderful friend. I will miss you terribly. 
Sending my belated condolences to Holly’s loved ones.
Much love,
Domaine
x

November 15, 2023

My condolences to all of your family. She was a force for sure. With love and prayers 🙏❤️✌️
Cass Vinci Golshani 

August 09, 2023

Holly was ‘one of a kind,’ and a very genuine person and friend.  The few times I have interacted with Holly since high school had always been a positive and special memory.  Holly was a very positive force and a special person.  
Jerry Stanley

June 15, 2023

As a representative for myself and my big brother, Paul Whyte, I would like to send my condolences to Holly’s husband, Mark Decker, their daughter and her stepdaughter. We would like to send all of you are sincere condolences concerning the passing of Holly. What a source of energy she was Only knew her as a highschooler. She was three grades ahead of me and there wasn’t one young kid walking the halls of Chatham high school who didn’t know and have a crush on Holly Kimmel. I remember fondly watching her as a cheerleader, as well as in the girls GAA show which exhibited many of the young highschoolers gymnastics talents at that time women’s sports was not as establish so they had very limited opportunities to show off their skill sets. I was unaware of Holly’s dance Talents, but it certainly does make sense with her being a cheerleader and being such a fantastic gymnast. I was one of those adolescents who also had a crush on Holly and she knew it and was nothing but kind personable and caring. It’s a lot of pressure for any young teenager to know some kid think she’s the bomb , and still treat them so kindly and be unaffected. 
If there is a heaven, I know my big brother Paul will be waiting for her to show her around and make sure people treat her correctly. He always thought so much of Holly.
 
if there is a heaven, I know my big brother Paul will be waiting for her to show her around and make sure people treat her correctly. He always thought so much of Holly.
I would like to personally send my thoughts and prayers to her little brother Cary, who was a teammate of mine in the sport of soccer at Chatham high school. I have nothing but love for this wonderful individual and teammate. A testament to both of the Kimmel children. No doubt their parents raised them correctly. A beautiful family. Again my heart goes out to everyone associated with Holly, and please know that the world is a a little grayer and a little less bright with the loss of Holly. I can see her now in my mind that I walking down the hallways of Chatham Township high school in her pink corduroy bellbottoms pants, a white shirt and a pink cashmere sweater. That smile, and that energy that she possessed was unique and so special.
 
I can see her now in my mind that I walking down the hallways of Chatham Township high school in her pink corduroy bellbottoms pants, a white shirt and a pink cashmere sweater. That smile, and that energy that she possessed was unique and so special.
To Cary, know that Holly was always proud of you and loves you dearly. Unfortunately, I am located in Texas and will not be available to attend her memorial service in July. Please know that my brother and myself have nothing but love for Holly and her memory.
 
Unfortunately, I am located in Texas and will not be available to attend her memorial service in July. Please know that my brother and myself have nothing but love for Holly and her memory.
Peace and prayers to Holly and everyone associated with her.
With find love and respect… Paul and Ricky Whyte
 
 

June 06, 2023

Having just learned of Holly’s passing, I am so saddened to hear this news. Condolences to all mourning her loss. We were big parts of each others lives many years ago and I know the passion Holly carried on a daily basis for everything. a star shines bright in heaven!

February 02, 2023

Your tribute to your mother is so beautifully written, Taylor. It is a wonderful testimony to a dear, kind, talented, beautiful, smart and funny woman who had a way of making everyone feel loved and special. She will be missed by everyone who was fortunate enough to know her and call her a friend.

February 01, 2023

She was a shining star not only for her accomplishments but for her friendship and kindness to everyone regardless if they we’re friends or not. She will be sorely missed 
carole Mead Davis ’71

February 01, 2023

Holly was my cousin. We shared many fun times but especially memorable were our Christmas visits at Ina and Charlie’s in Chatham. She was such a unique and fun person. We reconnected thru fb and instagram . She had health challenges herself but was ready to give warmth where needed to many other hurt souls.  She will be missed.
Vickie Learner Adams
(daughter of Herb, Ina’s  big brother)

February 01, 2023

I am beyond saddend at Holly’s passing.  I am blessed to have grown up with Holly, and her brother Cary.  Prayers and love to her family.

February 01, 2023

So sorry to hear of Holly’s passing. She was my across-the-street neighbor in Chatham, and she was a lot of fun to follow on facebook. I’m sure the sky will shine a little brighter at night. 

January 31, 2023

I remember sleeping at your house in Doylestown.  Right next to the over pass us my recollection. I think it was to celebrate your birthday. Your mom was not only beautiful to the eyes, but so kind and caring. I only had that one interaction with her, but I still remember it today. I’m so sorry for your loss.  I am lifting you up in prayer. 
Kindly, 
Becca Edwards 

Services
Saturday, July 08, 2023
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
1110 Oakmont Drive
Lancaster, PA 17601
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