NORTH MYRTLE BEACH  -  John Ruffin "Skip" Holden, III, 76, of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, passed away peacefully Friday, November 15, 2024, at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare in Wilmington.  A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 PM on Sunday, December 1, at the Jacksonville Country Club in Jacksonville, NC. All who knew Skip are invited to join in remembering the man who brought joy, laughter, and love to so many

Born November 5, 1948, in Greensboro, NC, Skip was the oldest son of John and Kathryn Holden, both of whom predeceased him. Growing up in Jacksonville, Skip's friendly personality made him a beloved figure to all who knew him.

Skip attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill before transferring to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Business in 1971. After college, he worked at his family's Chevrolet dealership, then became a general contractor, and eventually found his true calling as a real estate appraiser in North Myrtle Beach—a profession he enjoyed for over 25 years and later passed on to his son, John.

Boating and golf were among Skip's greatest passions. At just 7 years old, he had his first boat on the Trent River in New Bern, where his family spent summers. His love for golf began in middle school and grew throughout his life, earning him several honors, including Club Champion at the Jacksonville Country Club. Above all, though, Skip treasured the friendships he made—whether on the water or on the course—and the joy of spending time with his friends.

Skip's greatest pride was his family. A devoted father and grandfather, he found endless joy in his five grandchildren. Whether attending their sports and performances, taking them on boat and jet ski rides, or enjoying golf cart outings in North Myrtle Beach, Skip made sure to create lasting memories with those he loved.

A loyal friend, confidant, and neighbor, Skip was known for his generosity, sense of humor, and genuine ability to connect with others. Always ready to listen, offer a helping hand, or share a laugh, he had a special way of making people feel valued.

Skip is survived by his daughter, Tasha Holden of Morehead City; his son, John Holden and wife Sarah, and their children Jackson (14), Raleigh (12), Liberty (10), Mary (8), and William (6) of Sneads Ferry, NC; his siblings Cliff Holden and wife Kathy of Asheville, NC, Harriet Altman and husband Dave of Beaufort, NC, and Jayne Chambers and husband John of Fuquay-Varina, NC; as well as his nieces and nephews, Jacqui Haddow-Green, Jonathan Holden, Regina King, Jodi Holden, Samuel Altman, Hallie Altman, Macon Chambers, and Lilli Chambers.

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