James Holladay Obituary

James Frederick Holladay February 13, 1949 – July 5, 2025
James Frederick Holladay, 76, passed away at his home in Thornton, Colorado.
Born in Colorado Springs, Colorado on February 13, 1949, Jim was a proud Colorado native with a deep love for the mountains, fly fishing, woodworking, cycling, and most of all, his family. He was an all star football player for Limon HS, and played for two years at Colorado School of Mines before he earned his degree in Civil Engineering from Colorado State University and spent his professional life building and shaping the world around him with quiet dedication and skill.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and dog dad, Jim is survived by his loving wife Susan Holladay; his children Cy Holladay (Lynn), Darcy Holladay-Ford (David), Trisha Mendez (Richie), and Haley McNutt (Mason); his former wife Sarah Clausen, the mother of Cy and Darcy; his grandchildren Kass, Miko, Everett, Rook, and Otto; as well as his mother-in-law Lorraine Nall. He is also survived by his faithful dog Ollie. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Bruce and Oneita Holladay, his sister, Judy Barnhart, and his father-in-law Vern Nall.
Jim was known for his sarcastic sense of humor, his quiet strength, and his unwavering devotion to those he loved. Almost twenty years ago, after a nearly fatal fall, Jim fought his way back with incredible determination-defying the odds to witness his children grow into remarkable adults. He watched them graduate from college, build families, and follow dreams. One of his proudest moments was seeing his daughter Darcy earn her doctorate, turning his longtime joke into a reality: "Doc Holladay."
Whether he was crafting something in his workshop, or enjoying a peaceful moment outdoors, Jim lived with a steady presence that made others feel grounded and cared for.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to fishingthegoodfight.org in Jim's memory.
Jim Holladay's legacy lives on in the love he gave, the lives he shaped, and the stories his family will carry forward-told, of course, with a wink and a bit of well-timed sarcasm. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James, please visit our floral store.