John Risher Holder was born in Ted, Mississippi on September 7, 1929, and went to be with Jesus on October 23, 2025.  He graduated from Sylvarena High School in 1948 and worked part-time for the Internal Revenue Service, Jackson Blueprint & Supply, and Kennington's Department Store until he was drafted into the U.S. Army in February 1951.  He then served as Staff Sergeant with the 841st Engineer Aviation Battalion in the Korean War until February 1953.

In March 1953, he went to work for Western Electric (later known as Bell South).  He retired in 1987 with 34 years of service.

He met the love of his life, Doris Lene Garner, in March 1953 and married on August 14, 1953.  In 1959, they were blessed with twin daughters, who brought them great joy.   On August 14, 2025, they were blessed to celebrate 72 years of marriage.

John loved to coon hunt, ride around on his "mule" side by side, fish and work around his farm located outside Sylvarena, MS.  He could fix anything!

John always wanted to have his family in church and made that a priority.  While living in Jackson, MS, he was a dedicated member of Alta Woods Baptist Church and often served as an usher.  After moving to Brandon, he became a regular attendee of Brandon Baptist Church where he formed many special friendships.  He was a wonderful provider and always had an encouraging word for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  His family never had a reason to doubt the love that he had for them.

He is survived by his loving wife, Doris Holder; two daughters, Linda Boyles (Joe), and Lisa Ainsworth (Steve); two grandchildren, Amanda Peak (Steven) and Brian Boyles (Kameron); and four great-grandchildren, Hunter Peak, Ella Peak, Aubree Satterfield Boyles, and Brentley Boyles.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bascum Aubrey Holder and Ora Jane Wilkins Holder; his son Bruce Holder; and his brother, Neil Holder.

in lieu of flowers, please donate to:

Blair E. Bateson Children's Hospital

or

Brandon Baptist Church, 100 Brandon Baptist Drive, Brandon, MS  39042