Nate Holden

In Loving Memory of Our Father, The Honorable Nate Holden
Written by the Family of Nate Holden

It is with deep sadness and immense gratitude that we share the passing of our beloved father, The Honorable Nate Holden, who departed this life on May 7th, 2025 at the age of 95.

Our father was more than a public servant—he was a man of extraordinary vision, conviction, and heart. Born in Macon, Georgia and raised in Elizabeth, New Jersey, he grew up in a time when the odds were stacked against young Black men. But he never let his circumstances define him. Instead, he defined himself through education, service, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

Before entering public office, our dad worked for 17 years as a design engineer in the aerospace industry, contributing to historic projects like the Surveyor Lunar Landing spacecraft mission. He also served our country during World War II as a member of the U.S. Army Military Police Corps. These early chapters shaped the discipline, humility, and courage that would come to define his leadership.

His public service career spanned more than 30 years—from serving as Assistant Chief Deputy to Supervisor Kenneth Hahn, to his term in the California State Senate, and finally, four terms on the Los Angeles City Council representing the 10th District. But titles aside, he was always focused on the work. Whether it was authoring the legislation that made Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday a California state holiday, launching gun buyback programs to reduce violence, rebuilding Crenshaw after the 1992 uprisings, or advocating for seniors, consumers, and students—he led with conviction and compassion.

We witnessed firsthand the weight he carried, the long hours, and the burden of doing what was right, even when it wasn’t easy. But we also saw his joy—especially when serving the people of Los Angeles. He believed deeply in the potential of every community and used his voice to uplift those too often unheard. He carried Los Angeles in his heart and took its story to the world—from Korea to Berlin, Jamaica to Israel—always representing our city with pride.

He was honored in 2003 with the naming of the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center, but long before that, we—his family—knew the depth of his artistry in life. He approached everything with intentionality and care. He was a proud father to Chris, Reginald, and Melissa—and a deeply loving grandfather and great-grandfather.

Beyond the accolades and accomplishments, he was our dad. The man who believed in us, challenged us to lead with integrity, and reminded us—by example—that our lives matter most when they are in service to others. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and in the causes he championed with unwavering resolve.

Dad, thank you for blazing a trail so others could walk behind you. Thank you for the sacrifices, the wisdom, and the love. We will carry your torch forward—and we know we speak for many when we say: we are better because of you.

With love,
The Family of The Honorable Nate Holden

Contact Chris Holden at [email protected]