Earl Holder 85, passed away on Sunday morning January 15, 2023 at the Lenoir Healthcare. He had a long period of declining health but fought the good fight to the end.

Earl was born on March 16th 1937 to Ethel Mae Hampton Holder and Boyce Arvil Holder. He was the 4th child of 8 siblings. The siblings include Norma Sue Rash (deceased), Edwin Holder and wife Regina, Anna Critcher, Kate Holder, Neil Holder and wife Sharon, Carol Holder (deceased) and Linda Holder Kunder. The family depended on each other for survival and the good of all. The family worked together tending a farm, while Boyce worked as a Carpenter. There were 3 boys in the family and they took on responsibilities to the family at an early age. Earl not only worked on the farm but also worked with his father in his carpentry work. They built houses, bridges, Churches and most anything else needed. It was from this back ground that Earl became a "jack of all trades." Earl was known as the one who could build anything and fix anything. He used his ability to help many people in his lifetime. He often repaired houses, put on roofs, built furniture, fixed cars, etc for people, often not charging for his services.

In his school years, Earl was known for his athletic ability. He loved playing baseball and continued to play after his school years. He played on a team for a number of years and was especially known for hitting home runs. Earl was an avid basketball fan and enjoyed following this sport his team being Tennessee. He also liked to golf. His brothers Edwin and Neil will say that they could beat him in golf but no one could hit the baseball as far as Earl.

Earl married Marie Greene in 1962. They had the first "fancy wedding" in the family, involving many family members. Though they divorced after years of marriage, Marie was the love of Earl's life. Earl and Marie had two children, Lesa Holder Absher (James) and Annette Holder and they survive Earl. Earl has Grandchildren including Angela Absher Johnson (Larry), Kimberly Morgan (Patrick), Heather Absher, Allyson Absher, Christopher Burleson (Melinda), Joshua Burleson, Nichole Burleson (Jimmy, Dwight), and Makayla Moore. Great Grandchildren Trenton Johnson, Caleb Johnson, Skylar Burleson, Alexis Burleson, Haley Bright, Preston Bright, Pazleigh Bright. Earl is also survived by nieces and nephews who adored him including Ron Rash (Ann), Tom Rash (Susan), Kathy Rash Brewer (CH), Jeff Critcher (deceased), Janet Greer (Steve), Renee Lyons, Chad Critcher ( Lori), Tim Holder (deceased), Pamela Holder, Amnia Beth Holder Gaia (Willow). Earl had a special relationship with grandniece Celeste Greer MacMinn. Earl was also married to Louise McGalliard (deceased) and was a stepfather to her children.

Earl worked as a furniture builder and upholsterer for most of his life. Even though he worked full time in this field, he always had time to help others on the side. He was often called on by the family to "make things," and "fix things."

Earl attended Friendship Methodist Church as a child. Later in his life he renewed his relationship with Jesus Christ and was baptized at Antioch Baptist Church in Morganton and became a member. His dedication to his faith became his first priority. He exemplified Jesus's redemptive plan for salvation.

Though, Earls family will grieve for his loss, we know he will be with Jesus and we rejoice in that.

Memorials may be made to the Antioch Baptist Church or the Alzheimer's Association.

Family will receive friends at Antioch Baptist Church in Morganton on Jan 25th at 10:30 AM and service will be at 11:00 AM. Burial to follow in the church cemetery.

Online condolences may be sent to the Holder family at www.hamptofuneralnc.com.

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.