Lindale, Texas—It is with heavy hearts and profound respect that SMART-TD announces the passing of Brother Don Hollis, who passed away on March 29, 2026, at the age of 74.
A member of Local 439 (Tyler, Texas) and a former Cotton Belt General Chairperson, Brother Hollis began his career on the railroad as an engineer with Union Pacific before his retirement in 2012. He also held several positions with SMART-TD in his home state, including Local Chairperson and Secretary of Local Committee of Adjustment (LCA) 927A. More recently, Brother Hollis served as Division President to the Tyler chapter of the National Association of Retired and Veteran Railway Employees (NARVRE).
When reached by SMART News, General Chairperson of GCA 927 Scott Chelette noted that he and some other members had just been sharing stories about Brother Hollis and the impact that he left on all of them.
“He paved the way in a lot of agreements and doing a lot of things for this committee,” said GC Chelette, specifically pointing out his role in the 1996 Union Pacific and Southern Pacific merger.
Beyond the railroad, Brother Hollis was a member of the Masonic Lodge and First Baptist Church Swan and was an avid motorcycle enthusiast.
He is survived by his daughter, Brandy Hollis, and Josh Herrera of Big Sandy and was predeceased by his mother, wife, sons, and granddaughter.
We extend our deepest and most heartfelt sympathies to Brother Hollis’s daughter and his extended family and friends, as well as the members of Local 439 and those who knew him well. Most importantly, we are grateful for his many years of dedication and contributions to our union.
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