Lydia Joyce

Hollins

With warmth and found memories, we celebrate the life of Mrs. Lydia Joyce Womack Hollins, who gracefully and peacefully slipped away into the arms of the Lord on May 7, 2024 in her hometown of Mobile, AL. Born to the union of Annie Laura Womack Presley and the late Joe Neal Womack, Sr. on January 24, 1959, she was loved dearly by all who were fortunate enough to cross her path.

Lydia was educated in the Mobile County Public School System and was a proud graduate of C.F. Vigor High School in the Class of 1977. She continued her scholarly pursuits at Bishop State Community College, earning her Associate's Degree in 1979. She then matriculated to the University of Southern Mississippi where she was involved in a multitude of clubs and organizations. At Southern Miss, Lydia left her mark as a lifeguard, a resident assistant, and became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She graduated with her Bachelor's of Science Degree in Library and Information Science in 1981.

Lydia was an avid reader and had a true passion for literature. For over 25 years, she inspired countless minds to explore the wonders of literature. She began her career as a librarian at The Piney Woods School located in Piney Woods, AL. After a few years, she decided to move back home, accepting a position as a librarian at Forest Hill Elementary School. Lydia went on to work at Bishop State Community College as a librarian for over two decades until her retirement in 2022.

When Lydia wasn't trying to convince you to read whatever book she was currently reading, you could find her doing her favorite things; cooking and supporting her children. Lydia found solace and joy in the kitchen. She loved to try new recipes, bake her specialties like her famous pralines, and entertain all of her guests by sending them home with full bellies and leftovers. All of her meals came with a side of friendly advice and a smile. Lasting memories were created for all who had the pleasure of dining at her table.

Lydia's capacity for love extended far beyond her immediate family, embracing all who crossed her path with open arms and boundless affection. Affectionately known as "Mama Hollins," she nurtured and supported Lynn and Laura's friends as her own, offering guidance, shelter, and unwavering encouragement.

She is survived by her two loving and devoted children Lynn Howard (Arielle) Hollins, II and Laura Olivia Hollins; two grandsons, Lynn Howard Hollins, III and Harrison Howard Hollins; her mother, Annie Laura Womack Presley; four siblings, Jesse (Arlinda) Womack, Joe Womack, Theona (Lawrence) Dawson, and Fisher Womack; a multitude of devoted nieces and nephews; and a wide circle of cherished other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Reverend Adrian Diggs; her father, Joe Neal Womack, Sr.; and her sister, Portland Womack Stallworth.

Visitation will be held at Reese Funeral Home Friday, May 17, 2024 from 3:00 PM until 5:00 AM and continue at Yorktown Missionary Baptist Church on Saturday, May 18, 2024 from 9:00 AM until the 11:00 AM funeral service. Interment will take place in the Gethsemane Cemetery 800  Mobile Street Mobile, AL 36617.