John Austin Holley, Jr.
1939 – 2024
John Austin Holley, Jr. age 84, was born on October 11, 1939, in Denver, Colorado to John Austin Holley, Sr. and June (Lillard). He died peacefully at home, on August 1, 2024, hand in hand with his wife of 31 years, Christine (Trax- Rutherford) Holley in Rio Rancho, NM.
John is survived by his wife Christine, his sisters, Nancy Holley and Linda (Louie) Tate, two daughters, Danette L. Jacobson and Susan M. Holley (Scott Effing) and stepson Patrick W. Rutherford. Grandchildren, Brandy, Alyssa, Landon and Ava & seven great grandchildren. He was predeceased by son, Kevin D. Holley and stepson Douglas E. Rutherford.
John grew up in the small mining town of Erie, Colorado & had started a story of his experiences living in Erie during the 1940’s & 50’s.
John graduated from Pace University in Pleasantville, NY and worked for IBM Corp for 27 years and Intel Corp for 14 years and he led a full life. He traced his paternal lineage back to the American Revolution and his 4 times great grandfather, Jonathan Holley. He became a member of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and recently served as the President of the Albuquerque chapter. As the owner & vintner of the Holley Vineyard, over the past several years he won 14 medals at the NM State Fair. His talents shown through in all that he did, especially, his photography, painting and cooking. He authored a small booklet, “Look Backward, Go Forward and Succeed, Or how to rub shoulders with happiness!” John’s website will remain active for 5 years: www.holleypix.com showcasing his photography of flowers etc.
He was proud of his lineage to Myron Holley, superintendent & treasurer of the Erie Canal project, and ardent abolitionist. John & Christine recently dedicated a Holley Memorial Bench at the Myron Holley gravesite in Rochester, NY. John has asked that donations be made in his name to: Friends of Mount Hope Cemetery P.O. Box 18713 Rochester, NY 14618. However, the kindest gift of remembrance would be a Random Act of Kindness in John’s name & honor.
A memorial service will take place at a later date. Much gratitude goes to the Compassus hospice for their caring support & comfort.