Obituary of James Raymond Holdren

James Raymond "Jim" Holdren, 78 of Bedford, passed away Wednesday, January 13, 2016 at Centra Lynchburg General Hospital after a very short bout with cancer. He was a beloved husband, dad, granddaddy and father-in-law and a true friend to many. Jim led a full and industrious life, enjoying business, civic and family success. He retired from Holdren, Eubank, Stanley Insurance and Real Estate after more than four decades of leadership, after starting his career serving the youth of his native Bedford via the Virginia Cooperative Extension Agency. His community engagement activities included serving as Chairman and Trustee of the Bedford Community Health Foundation and President of the Board of Directors of Bedford Memorial Hospital, amongst others. Faith played a major role in Jim's entire life and he proudly served as Chairman of Main Street United Methodist Church's Administrative Board, and in other capacities. He was a 1960 graduate of Virginia Tech and nobly rooted for his Hokies through thick and thin, always with respect and honor. He is preceded in death by his father, William H. Holdren, his mother, Madeline S. Holdren and his sister, Betty Gaye Holdren. He is survived by his loving wife of forty-nine years, Sue W. Holdren; his son, Jay of Richmond, his son, Courtney of Bedford and their wives, Moira and Sara, and grandchildren, Madeline, Parker, Will & Lila as well as special friend, Persell Brown. Gift of remembrance can be offered to Main Street United Methodist Church, 212 East Main Street, Bedford, VA 24523. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 16, 2016 at 2:00 pm at Main Street United Methodist Church with Rev. Richard Ecklund officiating. Interment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. The family will also receive friends on Friday from 5 until 7 PM at Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.