John Ross Holder

John Ross Holder, age 77, of Portland, Tennessee passed away on Monday, May 8, 2023. John was born Sunday, July 1, 1945 in Wartburg, Tennessee. He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Birdie Hawn Holder; his wife of 33 years, Pamela Holder; son, Johnny Holder; brothers, Ronnie Hale Barnes, Jimmy Anderson, Skeets Oscar, William Dudley.

He is survived by his son Brian (Sarah) Holder; daughter, Kimberly (David) Sims; sister, Ruby Mae Sproles; brothers, Jim (Edi) Holder, Henry Holder; grandchildren, Sarah F. (Tyler) Holder, John Holder, Emily (Cody) Carver, Zachary Sims, Noah, Gavin, Gunnar and Grayson Holder; many loved nieces and nephews.

John grew up at Tennessee Preparatory School, Nashville from age 8 where he excelled academically. He was the page to the Legislative Council for 1961 and 1963 sessions at the state capital. John became an Eagle Scout at the age of 12. He led his class on every honor roll since 7th grade and was on the Honor Roll since 3rd grade. He was active in many sports and won several awards. He was also a member of the band. He was voted most likely to succeed in 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grade. John graduated as Valedictorian of TPS in 1964 setting records for the highest GPA.

John worked several years at the Ferro Corporation in Nashville, he retired from Oscar Mayer Corporation in Goodlettsville. John later worked for Superior Trim in Old Hickory.

John was a very selfless man who always put others before himself. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother and friend to everyone who knew him.

A visitation for John will be held Tuesday, May 16, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Forest Lawn Funeral Home followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2:00. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you express your love to those you value by going to dinner or sharing a meal in honor of John.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at:

www.ForestLawnFuneral-Goodlettsville.com for the Holder family.