Willie Thomas Holder

Willie “Tee” Holder, 83, of Athens, Georgia gained his angel wings on Friday December 1, 2023.  He was the eldest child of the late Magnolia Jennings Holder and Booker T. Holder Sr. He is also preceded in death by his wife Mammie Lou Holder, grandparents Tilmon (Annie) Moon, sister Elizabeth (Mook) Parks, brothers Booker T. Holder Jr., Robert Dean Parks, and James “Peewee” Youngblood.

Willie is survived by his daughter Sheila Cantrell and his son George Holder. His grandchildren; Tremain (Rouse) Cantrell, Toccara Cantrell, and Edward (Lisha) Cantrell. His great grandchildren; Carter Cantrell and Melody Cantrell. His Sisters; Lelia Mae Favors, Barbara Parks, Betty Jo (Lorenzo) Parks, Agnes Riden, Shirley (Bobby) Dorsey, and Lena Parks. His Brothers; Willie “C” Holder, Stagger Lee (Ellen) Parks, and Alfonzo (Mary) Parks. He also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews who love him dearly.

Willie was a true gentleman with a kindred soul, he never met a stranger. Although seemly shy, he had a welcoming demeanor that made a stranger feel comfortable conversing with him. He was full of so much life, love, and natural sincerity. He truly relished spending time with his family and friends. Willie enjoyed fishing, gardening, baking, and old model cars. He loved cars so much that he began collecting them, and when he could no longer collect them, he turned his motorized wheelchair into his new car.

Willie grew up in Jackson County, GA, he later relocated to Clarke County with his family where he attended Clarke County schools. After grade school Willie made Athens his permanent place of residence. Willie worked for Athens Housing Authority where he later retired after years of hard work, resilience, and dedication.

Willie “Tee” Holder will be missed, however the memories we have created with him will forever live on in our hearts and spirit. May our father, brother, grandfather, uncle, friend, and now one of Gods precious Angels rest peacefully.