Bloomingdale woman sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty in 2024 double homicide of her mom & uncle

by Madalyn Bierster

CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - A Bloomingdale woman has begun her prison sentence, after being sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole.

35-year-old Holly Marie Scott pleaded guilty in a 2024 double homicide that left two of her family members dead, her mother and her uncle.

A Bloomingdale woman has been sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to a 2024 double homicide that left two family members dead, her own mother and her uncle.

Scott’s sentencing sheet shows she’s guilty of 2 counts of malice murder, 2 counts of felony murder, and 2 counts of aggravated assault.

She was sentenced to life in prison on the first count and life in prison on the second count, but those sentences will run concurrently, meaning at the same time.

Both counts of aggravated assault were merged with counts one and two, and the sentences for both felony murder charges were vacated because of the plea.

Investigators later confirmed that Scott is the daughter of Shirley Doulin and the niece of James Doulin.

The paperwork in her case states the sentence is life with the possibility of parole. Records indicate Scott pleaded guilty to avoid the maximum possible sentence of two consecutive life terms.

The charges stem from a July 31, 2024 stabbing in Bloomingdale that left 62-year-old Shirley Jean Doulin and 61-year-old James Patrick Doulin dead.

The charges stem from a July 31, 2024 stabbing in Bloomingdale that left 62-year-old Shirley Jean Doulin and 61-year-old James Patrick Doulin dead.
previous coverage here: www.wtoc.com/2024/07/31/two-dead-apparent-stabbing-bloomingdale/

According to the Bloomingdale Police Department, officers responded to reports of a stabbing in the area of Morgan Road around midnight. When they arrived, they found Shirley Doulin and James Doulin suffering from critical stab wounds.

Shirley Doulin died at the scene, while James Doulin died while being transported to the hospital by EMS.

Shirley Doulin died at the scene, while James Doulin died while being transported to the hospital by EMS.

Police say Scott was found shortly after the stabbing at a gas station off Little Neck Road. Investigators say she called 911 to turn herself in and was arrested at the location.

See previous coverage: www.wtoc.com/2024/07/31/suspect-bloomingdale-stabbing-related-victims-officials-say/

Investigators later confirmed that Scott is the daughter of Shirley Doulin and the niece of James Doulin.

Authorities said initially the incident appeared to stem from domestic issues, though the exact motive was unclear.

At the time of the killings, she was already on parole, according to the Georgia Department of Corrections.

She had been incarcerated at West Central Prison for a 2022 case involving terroristic threats and obstruction of law enforcement until May 1, 2024, 2 months before these fatal stabbings.

At the time of the killings, she was already on parole, according to the Georgia Department of Corrections.

While her case went through the court system, there were mental competency issues raised.

Family members of the victims spoke out in the aftermath of the killings, expressing grief and disbelief.

“My uncle was the type that when I said no to my children, he said yes... He had the most purest heart... It’s a nightmare. My uncle definitely did not deserve this, nor did my aunt,” said Ashley Burnett, a relative of the victims.

“Shirley was a hard worker and always made anything she had work for her. She was always known for her soft and quiet voice. She never complained and was always positive about any situation. She always found a solution and would say “you need to look for options, there’s always options”. She was the sweetest person and was always polite and never would let you forget she was thankful for anything you did for her. She loved to cook, wear comfy pajamas, and listen to all genres of music. She was a lover of all types of animals. She was the best mom anyone could ask for. She will never be forgotten and will always missed."

According to Shirley's obituary

The Bloomingdale Police Department previously said the case remained an active homicide investigation as they worked to better understand the circumstances surrounding the deadly attack.

Doulin’s family is remembering the late siblings fondly, sharing memories and moments that will stick with them forever, as they grieve this loss.

“Jimmy grew up to be a man whose heart was as open as the vast ocean he adored. His life was a testament to selflessness and familial devotion. Jimmy spent his professional life as a dedicated mechanic, working at Savannah Tire and SOS Tire in Garden City, where his skill and work ethic were unmatched. Away from work, he embraced the joy of simple pleasures. A true family man, Jimmy cherished moments spent with his loved ones, whether it was watching TikToks or cartoons with his grandchildren or enjoying a game with his son-in-law, Mike. His love for the Dallas Cowboys was only rivaled by his passion for his Mustang and the serene visits to the beach.”

According to James' obituary

Scott is serving her life sentence at Mcrae Women’s Facility.

Holly Marie Scott, GDOC
Royce Abbott
Royce Abbott

Advisor | License ID: 438255

+1(912) 438-9043 | royce.abbottjr@engelvoelkers.com

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