James K. Holden

James K. Holden, born December 27, 1953, in Joplin, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on the morning of January 14, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 72 years old.

Known to most as Jim, he lived a life full of joy, adventure, and kindness. He had a deep love for fishing, traveling, camping, and anything with wheels. His smile came easy, his laugh was contagious, and he had an extraordinary ability to make everyone around him feel welcome. Jim genuinely loved people, and his heart of gold was felt by all who knew him.

Jim proudly served three years in the United States Army, spending his final 13 months stationed in Frankfurt, Germany, where his son Mike was born. After returning home, he spent nearly three decades working at Modine Manufacturing in Joplin, where he eventually retired. Following retirement, Jim worked several years at Outpost Casino in Wyandotte, Oklahoma, as a security officer — a job he truly enjoyed and took great pride in.

He is survived by his son, Mike Holden of Joplin; his girlfriend, Diana Gatliff of Tulsa; his sister, Debbie Whitlock and her husband Brad of Springfield; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, James J. Holden; his mother, Patsy Ann Holden; and his sister, Kathy Lynette Firey.

A Celebration of Life for Jim will be held on January 23rd at Fairview Baptist Church in Joplin, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor a man who made the world brighter simply by being in it.❤️

Arrangements are under the personal care of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, Mo.