Samuel “Sam” Holden, a beloved son, father, brother, uncle, friend, and cherished member of his community, passed away on August 14, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, hard work, and service to others.
Born on October 23, 1948, in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Sam grew up in San Antonio, Texas, where he attended Highlands High School and later Southern Methodist University.
Sam leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love and family. He will be deeply missed by the love of his life, Sue Pritchard; his beloved children, Ivie Partridge, Farrah Rahm, Christa Holden, Brad Holden, and Taylor Holden; and his two amazing sons-in-law, Blake Partridge and Brent Rahm.
His greatest joy was his family, and he leaves behind grandchildren who brought so much happiness to his life: Madison Graef; the cherished memory of Jacob Strainer, Jerry “J.T.” and Laura Strainer; Matthew and Savannah Rahm; and Casey Rahm. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Carter Graef, Hayden Strainer, Emma Strainer, Becca Strainer, Charlie Rahm, Copeland Rahm, Callahan Rahm, Rosalie Rahm, Lilly Holden, and a precious baby Rahm who will soon join the family.
Sam's heart extended beyond his immediate family to his beloved bonus family: Brandi and Paul Perez; Shanna Pritchard; Shane Pritchard and their wonderful children, Brandon and Kayleigh Rohan, Kaliegh and Matthew Stanush, Andrew and Jess Pritchard, the cherished memory of Trevor Thayer, Alex Thayer, Hunter and Sarah Pritchard, and Evan Pritchard.
He was blessed to be a great-grandfather to even more little ones in his bonus family: Harper, Conlin, and Lena Rohan; Hannah and Noah Stanush; Ryleigh, Brielle, Emma, and Kam Pritchard; Harley, Liam, and Morgen Pritchard; and a sweet baby Peyton who will soon be welcomed into the family.
Sam is also survived by his wonderful niece, Juliette Allen, as well as many other family members and loved ones whose lives he touched in countless ways.
Sam dedicated much of his professional life to the railroad, where he worked as a locomotive engineer and served as a Safety Committee Facilitator. He took great pride in his work and the people he worked alongside.
A talented and passionate chef, Sam also shared his love of food and hospitality as a restaurant owner. He found great joy in bringing people together around a good meal and making others feel welcome.
Sam had a deep love for music and was a man of strong faith. He believed in helping others and gave generously to causes that were close to his heart, including Wounded Warrior Project and the San Antonio Food Bank. Even in death, Sam continued his legacy of giving through organ donation, offering the gift of life to others.
Outside of work, Sam was happiest outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and gardener who found joy in working with his hands and spending time in nature. He had unlimited curiosity for all things. He had a love for animals of all kinds and never seemed to meet an animal he didn’t like. He loved the beach and treasured the peace and beauty he found there.
Sam will be remembered for his generous heart, his unwavering love of family, his devotion to his faith, and his passion for music, food, nature, and helping others. Most of all, he will be remembered for the love and kindness he shared with those fortunate enough to know him.
Celebration of Life will be held on September 13th, 2026, doors open at 12:00 PM, services start at 12:30 PM, at Porter Loring Mortuary North, 2012 North Loop 1604 East, San Antonio, Texas 78232.
Rest peacefully, Sam. You were deeply loved, and you will be forever missed.
