Tommy Holder Obituary

Tommy Lee Holder, Sr., a beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on July 17, 1941, in Jonesboro, Louisiana, Tommy spent his life surrounded by family and friends who cherished his kind spirit and unwavering dedication to those he loved. Raised in Cotton Valley, Louisiana, Tommy was the son of Samuel Holder Sr. and Gay Shackelford Holder. He married Bobbie Murray, his devoted wife of 54 years on December 24, 1961. They lived in Leesville over 50 years where they raised their three children. He was preceded in death by his parents Sam and Gay Holder, his wife Bobbie Holder, and his siblings-brothers Marvin, Elcie, Bud, Archie Lee, and Buster, and sisters Louise, Oletta, Dewanna, Opal, Merlene, and Sherry. Tommy is survived by his son, Tommy Holder, Jr., (Carmen); daughters, Susan Burlison (Marty), and Beth LaFosse; grandchildren, Michael Burlison (Chastity), Tim Burlison, Jamie Zahn (Casey), and Greg Olson (Helena). He was also a proud great-grandfather to his six great-grandchildren: Trey Burlison, Cayden Zahn, Palin Burlison, Timothy Burlison Jr., Landen Zahn, and Michael Olson. A loving family man, Tommy found immense joy in the time spent with his children and grandchildren, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. He is also survived by his sisters-in-love, Chloe Dean Howe, Shirley Graham, and Doubie Dye, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly. Tommy was a member of the church at Jackson Chapel Church of Christ. He was known for his kindness and generosity towards others. Tommy's life was characterized by simple pleasures and a deep appreciation for nature. He loved spending time on the back porch, sipping coffee, and watching the deer in the field and the birds on the feeders in his back yard. He was an avid fan of westerns. He had a knack for building things, a skill he often utilized to create special projects for his wife, Bobbie, showcasing his love through his craftsmanship. Professionally, Tommy worked hard to provide for his family, beginning his career in power line construction and later retiring as a heavy equipment mechanic for DOL Maintenance at Ft. Polk. Tommy's funeral service will be held on July 30, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Jackson Chapel Church of Christ, with Bro. Ricky Jackson and Bro. Alex Diestelkamp officiating. Burial will follow in the Stephens Cemetery under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 29, from 6:00 PM until time of service on Wednesday, July 30th at the church. Those honored to serve as pallbearers are, Michael Burlison, Tim Burlison, Trey Burlison, Marty Bailey, Kevin Murray and Greg Olson. Honorary pallbearers are, David Graham, Casey Zahn, Cayden Zahn, Landen Zahn, Michael Olson, Timothy Burlison, Jr. and Bubba Dye. Mr. Holder's family expresses their sincere appreciation for the prayers, thoughtfulness and kindness shown by friends and loved ones during this difficult time. They extend special thanks to Dr. Randall Duplechain and Heart of Hospice for their compassionate care and support. Your continued prayers are welcomed. Tommy Lee Holder Sr. leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and deep family values. He will be remembered fondly for his gentle spirit, unwavering dedication to his family, and his ability to find joy in the little things. Though he may have left this earth, his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Words of comfort may be expressed to the family at https://www.labbymemorialfh.coms