Don Holloway

Donald Byrd Holloway Jr., known affectionately by friends and family as Don, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2023, at the NHC of Cookeville. Born on November 5, 1954, in Nashville, Tennessee, Don's life was a testament to his unwavering kindness, infectious humor, and boundless love for his family and community.

Don was a proud graduate of Putnam County Senior High School, where he cultivated a lifelong passion for football, graduating in 1973. He continued his education at Tennessee Tech University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in accounting in 1979. During his college years, Don was an active member of the SAE fraternity, forming friendships and memories that lasted a lifetime.

Professionally, Don was the dedicated owner of Racquet Master, a beloved fitness gym in Cookeville, for over 39 years. His commitment to helping others achieve their fitness goals was more than a career; it was a calling. Don's genuine care for every individual who walked through the gym's doors made him a pillar of the community and an inspiration to many.

Don's faith played a central role in his life. He was a devoted member of Cookeville First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, where he served as an elder and Sunday School teacher for the Good News Class. His selfless nature was evident in his service to the church and its members, always ready with a helping hand or a word of encouragement.

Family was the cornerstone of Don's world. He leaves behind his loving wife, Jan Holloway, and their daughter, Kelly Gaw, along with her husband, Landon. Don's sister, Sheila Julian and her husband, Terry, and sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Gayle and Ted Loftis will miss his warmth and guidance. His mother-in-law, Amy Gentry, cherished him as a son. A devoted grandfather, known as Papa Don to his grandchildren, Bryce, Bentley, Jessie, Charlee, Shai and her husband Isaiah, Lexi, and Tori, along with great-grandchildren, Maddex and Knox. Don's nieces, nephews, an aunt, uncle , host of cousins and his beloved loyal dog, Fifi, also survive him, each holding dear the special moments they shared. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Donald Sr. and Betty Grisard Holloway; son, Don Holloway III, brother James Lynn Holloway; and father-in-law, Galen Gentry.

Those who knew Don will remember him for his loving nature, his kind spirit, and his ability to light up a room with his humor. His contagious smile could brighten the darkest of days, and his selfless actions spoke volumes of the man he was. Don's life was a living example of the words that best described him: loving, kind, and funny.

Funeral services honoring Don will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday December 27 at Cookeville First Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Rev. Christian Smith and Dr. Charles McCaskey will officiate. Interment will follow at Algood City Cemetery. Don's family will receive friends Wednesday from 11 a.m. until service time.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Cookeville First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 565 E. 10th St. Cookeville, TN 38501, Cookeville/Puntam County Animal Shelter, 2650 Gainesboro Grade, Cookeville, TN 38501; or Parkinson's Foundation, www.parkinson.org.

Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.