Aleta Suzanne

Hollenshead

Forever Our Nana Bear.

 Aleta Suzanne Hollenshead, affectionately known to so many as “Nana Bear,” was welcomed into her heavenly home on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 8:57 p.m., surrounded by her loving family. She was 76 years old. 

Suzanne was born on February 17, 1950, in Olla, Louisiana, to Rev. Hardie Lensford Bass and Sarah Inez Bass. Raised with a strong foundation of faith, family, and Christian values, Suzanne carried those principles with her throughout her life. Her faith was not simply something she practiced on Sundays; it was reflected in the way she lived, the way she treated others, and the love she so freely gave. 

When her family moved to Ruple, Louisiana, Suzanne met the love of her life, Alvin Ray Hollenshead Jr. The two were married on March 17, 1973, beginning a beautiful journey together that would span more than 53 years. Suzanne and Ray were, in many ways, the perfect example of opposites attracting. Ray was known to have a wild streak, while Suzanne was his steady, patient, and loving counterpart. She had the patience of a saint, and anyone who knew Ray understood just how much that patience could be tested! But through all of life’s adventures, they built a marriage rooted in love, commitment, and family. Together, they created a life filled with memories and a family that became their greatest accomplishment. Their family began to grow in 1976 with the birth of their first daughter, Alicia Renee, followed by Sheri Annette in 1979. Little did they know just how much their family would continue to grow, or how many lives they would touch along the way. From the very beginning, Suzanne poured her heart into being a mother. Her girls were her world, and she made it her mission to be involved in every aspect of their lives. Whether serving in the PTO, coaching their softball teams, teaching Sunday School, or simply being their biggest cheerleader, Suzanne was always there. She took tremendous pride in the women her daughters became and the families they built. But as much as Suzanne loved being a mother, nothing could have prepared her for the joy that came with becoming “Nana.” 

Being Nana was not simply a title to Suzanne; it was one of her greatest blessings and most cherished roles. Her grandchildren quickly became the center of her world, and she made certain that each one knew just how deeply they were loved. If there was a ballgame, school program, special occasion, or milestone to celebrate, you could count on Nana and Papaw being there. They spent countless hours sitting in bleachers, standing along sidelines, and cheering with pride. It didn’t matter how far they had to travel or how busy life became. If their grandchildren needed them, they showed up. And when the great-grandchildren came along, the love only multiplied. Another generation brought new memories, more laughter, more ballgames, and even more reasons to celebrate the family she treasured so dearly. Suzanne was a woman of unwavering faith, strong morals, and a truly selfless heart. Everything she did was for others. She never sought recognition or praise, and she never expected anything in return. Her greatest happiness came from knowing that the people around her were loved, cared for, and happy. Her Christian faith guided her life, and she demonstrated that faith not just through words, but through kindness, generosity, patience, and service to others. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel loved and welcomed. Her heart and her home were always open. Over the years, her family grew far beyond those related to her by blood. She collected countless “adopted” children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. To know Suzanne was to know that there was always room for one more at the table and always enough love to go around. And if you were fortunate enough to be loved by Nana Bear, chances are you heard her say: “I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck and a whole lot more.” Those weren’t just words to Suzanne. They were a promise, one she lived out every single day. She loved without limits, gave without hesitation, and made sure the people in her life never had to question how much they meant to her. Suzanne leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in years, but in the countless lives she touched, the traditions she helped create, the faith she demonstrated, and the love she gave so freely. Her family will forever remember her unwavering support, her generous heart, her steadfast faith, and the way she made each of them feel special. While her family will miss her presence more than words can express, they find peace and comfort in knowing that she has been welcomed into the arms of her Lord and Savior. The love she poured into her family will continue through the generations. Every family gathering, every celebration, every ballgame, and every new milestone will carry a little piece of Nana Bear with it. 

Suzanne was preceded in death by her parents, Rev. Hardie Lensford Bass and Sarah Inez Bass; and her sister-in-law, Beverly Bass. 

She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Alvin Ray Hollenshead Jr. of Brazoria, Texas; her daughters, Alicia Renee Bock and husband Kevin of West Columbia, Texas, and Sheri Annette Hagemeier and husband Tim of Brazoria, Texas. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Kynzie Bock of West Columbia, Texas; Morgan Bock of West Columbia, Texas; Michaela Kennemer of Sweeny, Texas; Kaitlynn Kennemer of Sweeny, Texas; Derek Bock of Phoenix, Arizona; Kaitlin Farmer and husband Andrew of Klein, Texas; and Garret Hagemeier of Lake Jackson, Texas. Her cherished great-grandchildren include Rorie Eubanks, Liam Hererra, Max Farmer, Ronan Farmer, TG Hagemeier, Blaire Farmer, KK Farmer, and Gabe Worthington. Suzanne is also survived by her brothers, Jim Bass and Pat Bass and his wife Yvonne, along with numerous extended family members, dear friends, and those who lovingly called her their second mom, Nana, or Nana Bear. 

Celebration of Life Funeral arrangements are under the direction of C.T. Baker Funeral Home. A celebration of Suzanne’s life will be held on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Brazoria, Texas. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. and continue until 10:30 a.m., with the funeral service immediately following at 10:30 a.m. Suzanne will be laid to rest at Lebanon Cemetery in Homer, Louisiana, with burial services tentatively planned for Saturday, November 14, 2026. The time of the graveside service will be announced once arrangements are finalized. ⸻ 

Though our hearts are broken, we rejoice in knowing that Nana Bear is home. Her earthly work is done, her faith has become sight, and the love she shared will live on in every generation of the family she treasured so dearly. And until we meet again, Nana, we love you a bushel and a peck, a hug around the neck, and a whole lot more.