of Somerville, TN

June 23, 1931 - March 13, 2024

Loel Emsley Holder passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 just a little more than three months shy of his 93rd birthday. He was the eldest son of Clarence Roosevelt Holder and Loyce Lenora Lantrip Holder. He was born in Chickasaw County, Mississippi on June 23, 1931. Loel was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Marie Groves Holder.

Loel grew up on a farm in Houlka, MS. He was awarded the Degree of State Farmer by the FFA at the age of 15. He took great pride in his ability to work land and raise livestock. After his graduation from Houlka High School Class of 1948, he moved to Memphis where he met his future wife, Marie. Together they created a wonderful Christian home for their children. He was an Elder in the Presbyterian Church (USA) and was a dedicated servant to the Lord and gave willingly of his time and talents. Loel served in the Navy as an Aviation Machinist. After his Honorable Discharge from the Navy, he attended Memphis State University where he was awarded a BS in Accounting. He later returned to Memphis State and received a MS in Education. Loel started his career at Holiday Inn in the early 60's. He had a successful career as an Accountant, serving as Secretary/Treasurer of the Downtowner Motor Inn Corporation and then CFO of Rivendell Behavioral Health. Loel retired, at age 63, from the University of Memphis where he served as Business Manager of Physical Plant and Planning. He and Marie lived in Greers Ferry, AR upon retirement, where he enjoyed fishing, serving his Church, volunteering in his community and spending time with his beloved dog, Shadrach.

Loel is survived by his three children, Mark Holder (Kathleen) of Little Rock, AR, Stacy Shinkle (Dick) of Harrison, AR and Leslie Morrissette (Jerry) of Somerville, TN; his brother, Don Holder of Memphis, TN; his niece, Donna Moore (Robert) of Memphis, TN and his nephew, Tim Holder also of Memphis, TN.

The family expresses deep and special thanks to Loel's caregivers who provided love, compassion and care to him as his time to depart his earthly life drew near.

A visitation will be held April 4th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Oakland Presbyterian Church at 14780 Highway 194 South (the corner of Hwy 64 and Hwy 194). A private service will be held April 5th at 11:00 AM at Collums Cemetery in Calhoun County, MS.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Memphis Union Mission or Fayette County Animal Rescue.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Citizens Funeral Home
201 North Pine Street
West Memphis, AR  72303
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com