Hillery Pauline Holt Vandagriff

Hillery (Chris) Pauline Holt Vandagriff was born on May 10, 1943, in Amarillo, Texas, to Gene Holt and Pauline Wall Holt. On August 8, 2025, after a short but courageous battle with cancer, she left this Earthly life and stepped into the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ—completely healed, full of joy, and reunited with loved ones who went before her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Hal Holt, her sister Imagene Mackay, and her infant daughter, Erin Kate.

Chris leaves behind her devoted husband, Bobby Vandagriff of Allen, Texas, her cherished parakeet Petrie, and her children: Amy Vandagriff Hale and husband David of Plano, Texas; David Vandagriff of Allen, Texas; and Ericca Vandagriff of Plano, Texas. She is also survived by her sister Jennifer Graham of Denison, Texas, and her treasured grandchildren: Ashlee Hale and Rebecca, Kaci Leonard, Nicholas Vandagriff and Chelsea, Matthew Hale, Kaylee Vandagriff, Eric Vandagriff, Shawn Vandagriff, and Bryan Vandagriff—each of whom lovingly called her “GiGi.” Her love extended to her four great-granddaughters—Aubree, Savannah, Samantha, and Sabreena—as well as countless nieces, nephews, and generations of extended family.

From the very beginning, Chris’s life was a testament to perseverance. Born with Central Core Disease, she faced physical challenges that might have slowed others down—but never her. Determined and unyielding, she raised three children, built a 19-year career with Hewlett Packard, and spent another 18 years serving in the Allen School District.

Chris’s loyalty knew no bounds. Her love for her people—family by blood and by choice—was fierce, steady, and unconditional. She was strong in her convictions, protective of those she loved, and never shy about speaking her mind. Those who knew her well knew that her honesty was a reflection of her deep care.

She had an affinity for animals (except elephants), a love for reading westerns, and a special place in her heart for her church family. Creative at her core, she was often found sewing, crafting, arranging flowers, or designing centerpieces for school and church events. She had an eye for beauty, both in the things she made and in the people she loved.

As the family historian, Chris kept meticulous records and notes—each photograph carefully labeled in her signature cursive. She was the keeper of stories, dates, and memories, and her recall of family history was unmatched. Her attention to detail preserved the fabric of her family’s past and ensured it would not be forgotten.

Chris’s legacy is one of unwavering strength, fierce loyalty, and deep, abiding love. She will be missed every single day until the moment her family and friends are reunited with her in paradise.

The family will welcome loved ones for an Evening of Remembrance from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Friday, August 22, 2025, at Allen Family Funeral Options.

A celebration of Hillery’s life will be held the following day at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Cornerstone Church in Lucas, Texas.