James Norman Holden, I

James Norman Holden, I, was the fifth born of ten children to Willie Issac Holden and Lennie Rogers Holden in Wendell, NC on November 28, 1944. He was called to eternal rest on June 8, 2023 at the age of 78. James grew up on a family farm in Wendell, NC and learned how to work early in life on the farm pulling tobacco and cotton.

James was previously married to Ramona Ann Brown. Two children were born of the marriage and a third was born of a later relationship.

James enrolled in North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and earned a B.S. Degree in Industrial Engineering. He enlisted in the Army and was honorably discharged. He later earned the status of Drill Sergeant and continued in that role via the Army Reserves for eight years.

James was a non-confrontational man and a very gentle spirit. He was an avid bowler, he enjoyed staying fit, liked to fish, enjoyed dancing and he was an absolute foodie; if it tasted good and was given to him, he would eat it all. Throughout most of his journey, even in the midst of his health conditions, James remained jovial and upbeat. He continued to love family, sports, music and food.

James leaves a legacy of love to his surviving family; children, Jacqueline Holden, James Holden, II, Desmaine Cousin (Larissa); grandchildren, Thomas Lee Garner, Jr., Dasia Danyelle Garner, Jasmine Coleman, Caree RaJae Ausar, and Cairo Cousin; sisters, Dayola Perry, Joyce Johns, Betty Hudson, Linda Hillian (Fred); brother, Spencer Holden (Eddie); sister-in-law, Sandra Holden, step-mother, Mary Holden; step-sisters, Patricia Harrison (William), and Mary Jones; step-brother, Robert Holden (Janet); former spouse, Ramona Ann Brown; and dozens of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Preceding him in death are his parents, Willie Issac Holden and Lennie Rogers Holden; sisters, Daphine Peoples, Sylvia Soloman; brother, Richard Holden and brothers-in-law, Herman Peoples, William Hudson and Elmer Perry.

A celebration of James’ life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 17, at Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services of Greensboro. Interment will follow at Lakeview Memorial Park. There will be a visitation from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.