Jack Leroy Holder, age 83 of Ruston, LA, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2025, in Kannapolis, NC, surrounded by his family. Jack was born in Coffeeville, KS on March 14, 1942, to Ernest James Holder and Hazel Hughbanks Holder, of Wichita, KS. Jack married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Kathleen “Kathy” Woodman, on October 16, 1960. Jack and Kathy have two children, Sandra Kay Holder Carlson and Ernest James Holder.
Jack held numerous management positions throughout his life, working in industries ranging from restaurant operations and ownership to insurance sales.
Over the past 40 years, Jack built a diverse and successful career developing several businesses to include selling carpet cleaning equipment, Dirt-X-Tractor, that he developed, manufactured, marketed and sold all over the country. In addition to Dirt-X-Tractor, his other company, Deep Steam Carpet Cleaning, was known throughout Ruston, LA and the surrounding areas for providing professional residential and commercial carpet cleaning and water restoration. Because of his diverse business knowledge and background, Jack spent his life mentoring his children and grandchildren in different business opportunities to help them grow and be successful in their businesses and careers. Jack was a driven passionate entrepreneur with a strong work ethic and continued working until his passing at the age of 83.
Jack was known for his sharp wit, strong work ethic, and generous spirit. He loved playing golf with his friends, watching NASCAR, and spending time with his grandchildren.
Jack is survived by his wife of 65 years, Kathy; his children, Sandy Holder Carlson and husband, Brooke of Belton, TX, and Ernie Holder and wife, Sandi of Kannapolis, NC; five grandchildren: Cade Carlson, Tanner Carlson, Colby Holder and wife Alyssa, Stormi Holder McCall and husband Tyler, and Kassidi Holder; and three great grandchildren: Presley Carlson, Khai Carlson, and Ellison Holder. He is also survived by his sister, Terri Holder Petersen and husband Gary, other family members and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Serving as pallbearers are: Mike Trussel, Trey Smith, Wynn Riser, Cade Carlson, Tanner Carlson, and Colby Holder.
Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00 AM Friday, June 6, 2025 at Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home in Ruston, LA with Rev. Gerald Nelson officiating. Burial will follow in Riser Cemetery under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel. Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Thursday, June 5, 2025 at Owens Memorial Chapel.
