Robert W. Hollis, III, 79, affectionately known as "Pappy" and "Pop" and longtime resident of Blythewood, went to be with the Lord on August 14, 2012 surrounded by his family.

Robert was born to the late Rev. Robert W. Hollis, Jr. and Elizabeth Rawl Hollis on September 17, 1932. He spent his childhood in Ehrhardt, SC.

Robert served his country in the US Army during the Korean Conflict. He was a dedicated employee of the Winn Dixie Stores, where he retired after 35 years. He enjoyed retirement and spending time with his family and beloved dogs, Princess, Prissy and Ugly.

Surviving are his wife of nearly 56 years, Ann Priester Hollis; five children, Robin (Frankie) Thompson of Gilbert, Cathy (Steve) Bannister, Robert IV "Bobby" Hollis, Connie (Henry) Robertson, all of Blythewood, James Michael "Jim" (Julie) Hollis of Irmo; grandchildren, Karl (Angela) Thompson, Nikki and Lee Robertson, Ethan, Chris and Daniel Hollis; great-grandchildren, Chase, Damian and Haley Thompson: sisters, Harriette Langdale and Barbara Ann Kennerly, step-sisters, Bobbie Medlin and Rosie Collins; aunts, Annie Laurie (Vernon) Gissendanner, Gladys (Richard) Carson and Jenny Hollis; sisters-in-law, Betty Priester and Maxine Priester McMillan; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, Mr. Hollis was preceded in death by a grandson, Steve C. Bannister, II and a sister, Elsie Hollis Speaks.

The family gives a special thanks to the nurses of Hospice Care of Tri-County, Vanessa, Gloria, Sue, Monique and Millie and son-in-law, Frankie Thompson.

A funeral service for Mr. Hollis will be held at 11 o'clock Friday, August 17, 2012 at Shives Funeral Home, 5202 Colonial Drive, Columbia, with Dr. James W. Thompson, III and The Rev. Curtis Robertson, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in Memorial Gardens of Columbia with military honors. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 9:30 o'clock at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to Ehrhardt Baptist Church, 427 Allen Street, Ehrhardt, SC 29081.