Richard D. Holland died May 7, 2026, in Ojo Sarco. He was diagnosed with cancer in April, entered hospice care, and died in his home in Ojo Sarco.

Richard was born on July 10, 1942. He was a reflective man, with an artistic sensibility and talents. He loved books, writing haiku poetry, studying philosophy and examining and discussing ideas old and new. He was a self-proclaimed hermit, but he greatly enjoyed engaging with his many friends on his porch where they shared their life experiences and appreciated his insights and wisdom in long conversations. He also delighted in the laughter, curiosity, and openness of children.

The touchstone of his life was his love of northern New Mexico. For more than 50 years, he grounded himself in La Tierra Bendita, Ojo Sarco. Richard and his parents, Frank and Rosemary Holland, loved the beautiful community of people in the village.

Richard worked a variety of jobs throughout his life, including with the U.S. Agency for International Development in Vietnam during the war there and, for many years, with the New Mexico Environment Department. But he believed that his most important work was to enjoy every day in Ojo Sarco farming with his dad Francisco, tending goats, backpacking in the Pecos Wilderness, feeding the birds, and observing the beauty of every season.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings George, Michael, Philip and Mary Ann; and brother-in-law Terry Cordes and sister-in-law Zoe Holland. He is survived by sisters Rosemary Holland, Mary Cordes, and Karen Nicholson; nephew David Cordes and his wife Jamie; and special god-daughter Emma Agnew Dover.

Richard’s sisters wish to thank his extended family of close friends whom he deeply loved, who journeyed with him and enriched his life immensely.

In honor of Richard, A Rosary led by Los Hermanos will be held on Saturday May 30th, 2026 at 3:00pm at San Jose de Gracia Church in Las Trampas and a gathering to celebrate Richard’s life and share stories will be held at a future time at the Community Center in Ojo Sarco.

The family of Mr. Holland have entrusted the caring professionals at Rivera Family Funeral Home of Espanola to support them during this time. We offer our heartfelt condolences to all.