Junior S. Holman

Junior Smith Holman, 87, Hamilton, MO., passed away on November 19, 2025, at the Cameron Regional Medical Center, Cameron, MO. Junior lived in Hamilton since 2006, and he previously lived in Kingston, MO.

Junior was born on April 12, 1938, in Plattsburg, MO., to Elmer and Synthia Jane (Covey) Holman. He honorably served his country in the Marines from 1957-1961. Junior worked as a truck driver and farmer and was the owner of Smitty's Used Cars in Liberty, MO., and Hamilton.

We remember our father, a man whose remarkable life story in the quaint town of Turney, MO. The youngest of eight children, his early years instilled in him a profound sense of responsibility and an unparalleled work ethic. By the tender age of thirteen, he had already embarked on his first professional journey, driving a truck to help support his family-a testament to his unwavering dedication.

This foundational experience paved the way for a distinguished career. For two decades, he navigated the vast network of American highways as an over-the-road truck driver, gaining invaluable experience and a deep understanding of mechanics. Upon his retirement from the road, he channeled his entrepreneurial spirit and lifelong passion for vehicles into establishing his own successful car dealership. His love for cars and trucks wasn't just observational; it was hands-on and competitive. He famously raced a vehicle, proudly claiming a trophy that became a symbol of his skill and enthusiasm. Indeed, he possessed the mind of a true mechanical genius, often sought out by others for his insightful expertise and practical solutions.

His industrious nature extended far beyond his professional life. He was a man who seemed to defy time, diligently running his business during the day and then transforming into a farmer in the evenings and on weekends, embodying a tireless commitment to his passions. Yet, for all his hard work, he held a gentle spot in his heart for his animal companions: his devoted dogs, Oscar, Lily, and Bullet, and, of course, his cherished cat, Boxer.

Our father was a man of memorable presence. With his strong, capable hands, a heart as expansive as his generosity, and those unwavering brown eyes that conveyed both determination and warmth, he possessed an undeniable charisma. To know him was to be touched by his spirit. He was not only successful in his endeavors but also deeply respected throughout the community, leaving an indelible mark through his integrity and genuine kindness.

His absence will be profoundly felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was, quite simply, an extraordinary man.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sons-Troy and William; and siblings-Rudy Blakely, Louise Troutz, Frances Boone, Margaret Moore, Bob Holman, Lillian Richie and Marie Pike.

Survivors include: Patricia Kratzer; children-Sherry Ballinger-Holman, Tammy Forte, Lanny Holman, Ranny Holman, and Jodi Dye; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Services are pending.

Memorial donations may be made in his memory to the Diabetes Foundation.

Interment: The Log Church Cemetery, Plattsburg, MO.