James Holbrook Obituary

James "Red" Nelson Holbrook, 90, of Winnfield, LA, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 25, 2024. He was born on March 23, 1934, in Brainerd, MN, the second oldest of twelve siblings.
James honorably served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After his service, he dedicated his life to ministry, serving as a longtime pastor of United Pentecostal Churches in Westfield, MA, Corvallis, OR, Marathon, IA, and Saline, LA. Known for his joyous spirit, he was always ready with a smile and his favorite phrase, "Super Fantastic," when asked how he was doing.
James loved spending time outdoors, particularly fishing and hunting, and he cherished time spent traveling to see his family. His favorite place in the world was the beach. A gifted engineer, James could craft or repair anything, but above all, he treasured the moments spent with his family.
James was preceded in death by his father, Vernon Lawrence Holbrook; his mother, Mettie Lucille Steven Holbrook; his beloved wife, Melbalene Lawson Holbrook; and four brothers.
He is survived by his children: daughters Jenny Kaye Hodge (John), Rebecca Folden, and Trena Short (Ernie); his son, Clarence Holbrook (Beth); his sisters Alice Pender (Frank), Miriam Christian, Ruth Wright, Joy Sullenger, Mettie "Fawnie" Merryman (Larry), and Kathy Giesbrecht; his brother, Chuck Holbrook (Lori); eight grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Last but not least, he is survived by his fur baby, Elvis "Buddy".
Pallbearers will be Nathaniel Short, Eric Short, Chris Folden, Darren Snelling, Jonathan Hodge, and Raymond Stuckey, with Hunter Short serving as an honorary pallbearer.
Visitation will be held at The Family Church on Sunday, September 29, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on Monday, September 30, from noon until the time of service. The funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, September 30, 2024, at The Family Church, officiated by Rev. John Hodge, Rev. Mark Green, Rev. H. W. Smith, and Rev. Nathan Newton. James will be laid to rest at Mt. Zion Cemetery near Montgomery, LA.
Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.southernfuneralhome.com.