Jimmie Clyde Holley, age 81, of Arlington, Texas, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026. He was born on April 14, 1944, in Electra, Texas, to Paul Holley and Aline Corder Holley.

Jimmie was raised in the close-knit community of Electra, Texas, where he developed a deep love for his hometown and family. He often shared fond stories from his childhood there. During his time at Electra High School, he served as Drum Major of the marching band and editor of the school yearbook. A talented musician, he played the trumpet and was recognized as an All-State musician.

Following high school, Jimmie attended Abilene Christian College, where he graduated in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. After college, he entered ministry and moved to Oklahoma City. It was there that he met the love of his life, Linda Carole Kelsoe. The two were married on March 15, 1968, in Oklahoma City and began a life together centered on faith, family, and service.

They initially made their home in Oklahoma City, where their first daughter, Gina, was born in 1970. In 1973 the family moved to Arlington, Texas, where their second daughter, Carrie, was born in 1974. Arlington remained Jimmie’s home for the rest of his life.

After serving in pulpit and youth ministry, Jimmie transitioned into the business world, where he found great success in sales and entrepreneurship. Over the years, he developed a reputation for purchasing struggling businesses and helping restore them to thriving ventures. He believed deeply that employees were the heart of every business and worked hard to create workplaces that felt like family. Those who worked with him often remembered his commitment to treating others “the way he wanted to be treated.” In the 1990s and 2000s, following several successful investments, Jimmie shifted into consulting, helping others grow and succeed in business.

Jimmie was a longtime member of Randol Mill Church of Christ, which is now North Davis Church, where he worshiped throughout his years in Arlington. In his early years there he was actively involved as a youth sponsor, supported the Jamaica School of Preaching, and participated in various other ministries.

He had a lifelong love for travel and enjoyed exploring destinations all over the world. Photography was another great passion of his, and as his daughters were growing up he was rarely without a camera in his hand. As a result, there are countless photographs of family memories—but very few of Jimmie himself, because he was always the one behind the lens. He also loved riding his Harley-Davidson and especially enjoyed motorcycle trips through the mountains and the Texas Hill Country.

Music filled the Holley household. Jimmie loved all kinds of music—from gospel and blues to country, Broadway, and pop—and his home was always filled with the sounds of songs he loved.

More than anything, Jimmie adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were truly the light of his life. He will be remembered for his storytelling, his big personality, and the deep love he had for his family.

Jimmie is survived by his daughters, Gina Herrod and husband Kelly of Arlington, Texas, and Carrie Foster and husband Kelly of Arlington, Texas; his brother, Van Holley and his wife Joy; his sister-in-law, Paula Amend and her husband Carl; his grandchildren, Brittany Knight and husband Chris, Brooks Herrod, Blair Herrod, Dawson Foster, and Kellar Foster; his great-grandchildren, Grace, Julie, and Caroline; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Carole Holley; his parents Paul Holley and Aline Corder Holley; his stepfather, Wrabon Evans; and his beloved dog, Ellie.

Jimmie passed away on March 15, the same date that marked what would have been his 58th wedding anniversary with Linda.

A service will be held Thursday, March 26 at 10:00 a.m. at North Davis Church in Arlington, Texas, with a private graveside service to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Corinthian Fund or Hearts and Hands at North Davis Church in Arlington, Texas.