GOOSE CREEK, S.C. — The City of Goose Creek is mourning the loss of former Fire Chief Lonnie Barfield Holland, a foundational figure in the city’s public safety history, who passed away Wednesday, January 14, at the age of 92.
Chief Holland’s funeral is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Monday, January 19, at J. Henry Stuhr Inc. Northwoods Chapel in North Charleston. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. that morning.
Holland’s legacy stretches back to Goose Creek’s earliest days. He played a pivotal role in the volunteer fire department efforts that began when the town was incorporated in 1961. Eventually named the city’s second fire chief, Holland led the department’s transformation into a full-time professional force. He was honored as Goose Creek’s Employee of the Year in 1985 and retired in 1998 after decades of service.
“Barfield was a good man who helped us make the transition from a volunteer fire department to a full-time, professional department,” said longtime City Administrator Dennis Harmon. “He contributed so much of his life to the City of Goose Creek.”
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Former Mayor Michael Heitzler echoed the sentiment, calling Holland “a public servant in his head and his heart.” Heitzler credited Holland with helping build the city’s first fire station on Button Hall Avenue, now home to Stones Throw Brewing. “He was proud of that station, and so were we,” Heitzler said. “He was incredibly dedicated to the people of Goose Creek and their safety.”
Beyond his fire service, Holland was one of three commissioners who oversaw the 1961 charter election that officially formed the Town of Goose Creek. His contributions helped shape the city’s civic foundation and emergency infrastructure.
City officials described Holland’s life as one of devotion and resilience, with a lasting impact on generations of Goose Creek residents. His leadership, humility, and commitment to public service remain woven into the city’s history.
Goose Creek residents and officials are invited to pay their respects at Monday’s service. An online obituary is available at J. Henry Stuhr’s website.
