John F. Holder

John Franklin Holder, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on March 19, 1946, in Macon, Missouri, to George Wilson Holder and Lotus Lorene Carroll Holder, alongside his twin brother, Jeffery Wilson.

John grew up in Maud, Missouri, where he graduated from Clarence High School in 1964. John enjoyed farming with his father and brother while growing up.

On July 3, 1965, John married the love of his life, Ruth Ann Tribble. Their marriage spanned more than 60 years and stood as a beautiful testimony of devotion, commitment, and enduring love.

John proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force alongside his twin brother, Jeff. He served as a mechanic and crew chief, working on C-141 aircraft and was stationed at Norton AFB in San Bernardino, California from 1965-1970.

Following his military service, John dedicated 34 years to his career at Diemakers in Monroe City, Missouri, where he was respected for his work ethic as a tool & die maker and instructor at the training center.

John was the proud father of two children. His daughter, Angela Freedline, husband David Freedline, now reside in Buckeye, Arizona. His son, Steven Holder, wife Amelia Carnahan Holder, now reside in Excello, Missouri.

John was a faithful follower of Jesus and for the majority of his life was a member at Clarence Christian Church. He enjoyed serving there as a Sunday School teacher, deacon, and an elder. More recently he and his wife were members at Forum Christian Church in Columbia.

He was a faithful friend to many, a devoted husband, and such a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. His family brought him so much joy, and in recent years he especially beamed with pride over his great grandchildren.

Granddaughter Lauren Jones, Bryant of Madison Mo - Everett John (7), Emelyn Faye (5) Granddaughter Gabrielle Isom, Brad of Shawnee, KS- Judah James (6), Adah Cate (5), Samuel Steven (4 months) Granddaughter Madyson Wright, Brock of Columbia, MO- Parker James (5), Halle Ann (3), Tucker Bradley (9 months) Granddaughter Kelsey Mueller, Jacob of Albuquerque, New Mexico- Evelyn Joanna (6) Granddaughter Kaitlyn Baldwin, Ryan of St. Charles, MO - Gavin James (4), Erica Lynn (2)

One of his greatest hobbies was trading vehicles-something he did often and with enthusiasm-owning more than 100 vehicles over his lifetime, each one a reflection of his curiosity and enjoyment of the process.

Funeral service will be held at 11:30 am on Monday, December 22, 2025, at the Greening-Eagan-Hayes Funeral Home of Clarence, MO with Jamie Frankie officiating. Visitation will precede the service starting at 10 am at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service in the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery of Jacksonville Missouri.

Memorials can be made out to Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans Hospital.