Margie Lee Holden

Margie Lee Holden, age 97, of Knoxville, Tennessee passed away on Wednesday, May 17, 2023. Margie was preceded in death by her parents, John T. and Ola M. Adams; husband, Ralph D. Holden, Sr., and sister, Ruby M. Holt. Margie was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was a true “Mama Bear” who was kind, gentle, and forgiving. Margie loved people and made lasting friendships easily.

Margie was born May 22, 1925, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. She graduated from Pine Bluff High School in 1943 before entering a Nurse Training Program at her local hospital. While in school she worked part-time for Simmons National Bank when she met her future husband. She married Ralph Holden in 1946 after he served with the U. S. Navy in the Pacific during WWII. Thus began their life together that lasted 67 years until his passing in 2013.

Margie was the ultimate homemaker. Margie’s cooking skills are legendary! As she raised two active children, she managed the family affairs throughout Ralph’s multiple job relocations. In 1966, Ralph brought his family to Knoxville to stay. Margie loved bowling and after moving to Knoxville her total number of perfect games increased from 2 to 5. She was an integral part of the West Hills 10 O’clock Gardeners and served as president. Margie, Ralph and daughter, Ann shared many happy years participating in raising and showing their quarter horses. Many wonderful life-long friends resulted from horse shows and travels. She was a long-term member of the Central Baptist Church of Bearden.

Margie is survived by her children, Don Holden (Susie) and Ann Holden of Knoxville. “MeMe” will be greatly missed by her two grandchildren, Ty Holden (Jami), Meg Akins (Jamie) and three great grandchildren: Riley, Grant, and Brett Holden.

A visitation for Margie will be held Monday, May 22, 2023 at 6:00 pm at Berry Highland Memorial Funeral Home, 5315 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, Tennessee 37919. A funeral service will follow at 7:00 pm. A graveside service will be held Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at 3:00 pm at Whispering Waters inside Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery, 5315 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, Tennessee 37919.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of Margie Holden to The Bloom Center c/o Central Baptist Church Bearden, 6300 Deane Hill Drive, Knoxville, TN., 37919.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.berryhighlandmemorial.com for the Holden family.