Kenneth "Ken" Joe Holder

Mr. Kenneth Joe Holder, 89, of Linden, joyfully entered the arms of Our Lord on March 6, 2025, after passing peacefully in his sleep. He was a saved child of God who gave his heart to Jesus in his 40s and was baptized in the Buffalo River in his 50s.

Born on July 29, 1935, in Caraway, AR, to Frank and Margie Holder, Ken’s life was filled with adventure, determination and a commitment to service. As a teenager, he earned his pilot’s license, a passion that stayed with him throughout his life as a private pilot. He spent his summers with family in Michigan where he later built his life and career. In 1958, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the Army, proudly serving as a Military Police Officer in Germany. Upon his honorable discharge in 1960, he continued his dedication to protecting and serving others, joining the Ypsilanti Police Department in Michigan. Over 25 years, he rose through the ranks to Lieutenant, earning the deep respect of his colleagues and community.

In 1982, Ken married Sue Fuller, joining their lives and embracing his role as a father to Glen and Crystal Fuller, a responsibility he took to heart with quiet strength and unwavering support. His love for his family spoke volumes and when his first granddaughter Madeline was born, he discovered a new depth of love that transformed him. Meredith soon followed, bringing even more light to his world. Twelve years later Anna joined the ranks of granddaughters, filling his heart. Then with the arrival of Lucas, his joy was complete. His grandchildren were his greatest treasures, and he cherished every moment spent with them as a proud Papa.

Retirement led Ken to Perry County, Tennessee, where he fulfilled his dream of living among the peaceful beauty of nature—by the river with his fishing pole in hand, surrounded by wildlife. He also kept his Cessna 150 series airplane in a private hangar at James Tucker Airport in Linden, TN, often enjoying flights over his property and capturing breathtaking views from the air. After just four years of quiet retirement, he joined the Perry County Sheriff’s Department as a deputy. With a firm but fair spirit, he served his community for another 23 years before retiring once more.

Ken was a strong, kind and deeply honorable man whose legacy of love and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be forever missed by his beloved wife Sue Holder, his son Glen (Alicia) Fuller, his daughter Crystal Fuller and his cherished grandchildren Madeline, Meredith, Anna and Lucas. He is reunited in heaven with his parents Frank and Margie Holder.

In honor of Ken’s deep love for animals, the family gratefully requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his name to the Linden Animal Clinic under Buddy’s Rescue’s account.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.