HOLLISTER
Just about everyone in Hollister came into contact with Holly Ruiz during her 28 years as an employee at A&W Restaurant on South Street.
“She was a community icon for almost 30 years,” said her sister, Sandy Green. “Everyone knew her as ‘Holly of A&W’ and thought of her as a town counselor, someone friendly and talkative that was just always there.”
Ruiz died in a fatal, single-car accident Saturday and leaves behind three children, one of whom is 12 years old. Police suspect alcohol may have been a factor.
A native of Hollister, Ruiz lived locally for all of her 44 years. According to her sister, “Holly loved being a Mom; loved the out of doors-gardening, fishing, and taking long walks, writing poetry, and baking in her kitchen at home.”
But it is A&W that most locals will remember about Holly, where she cheerfully served up burgers and root beer floats for so long, always taking time to exchange friendly banter with customers.
“She was really great with the customers,” said Michael Daya, owner of the restaurant. “She took care of everyone and knew absolutely everyone in the community.”
Holly took care of the business when Daya wasn’t around, he said, and she “took care of the restaurant the way it should be taken care of.”
Daya also pointed out Ruiz’ devotion to her children.
“Her children meant more to her than anything.”
Green echoed Daya’s comments, saying that her three children, Royce, Julie, and Ryan Ruiz, were always at the forefront of her thoughts.
Green underscored her sister’s positive impact here.
“She had a really big heart, was always ready to help anyone in need and always, always saw the good in people.”
