Roll Call Tribute

Johnnie Lee Holley, Jr. 

August 17, 1941 - December 22, 2025 

Johnnie Lee Holley Jr. 84, passed away at his home in Hawkins, Texas on December 22, 2025. A devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather and loyal friend to so many – Johnnie was a true Texas gentleman and lived a life defined by kindness, integrity, and quiet strength.

Born in Waco, Texas to Johnnie Lee Holley Sr. and Erna Emma Kretzschmar as the youngest of three children, Johnnie grew up with a deep love for the outdoors, music, sports and the value of hard work. Johnnie attended LaVega High School, graduating as Valedictorian in 1959. After high school, Johnnie attended Texas A&M University where he was a member of the Aggie Corp of Cadets, The Ross Volunteers and the Fighting Texas Aggie Band. Johnnie excelled in leadership roles throughout his college career, rising to Sgt. Major of the Aggie Band. Johnnie graduated in 1963 with a BS in Aeronautical Engineering. Johnnie’s love for Texas A&M would continue throughout the rest of his life. He credited his time at Texas A&M as molding his values and creating character traits and work ethic that would serve him throughout his adult life.

Prior to graduating from college, Johnnie married the true love of his life, Norma Jean Basham, also of Waco Texas.

After graduating from Texas A&M, he accepted his commission to the United States Air Force. Johnnie had a passion for flying, and he excelled as an Air Force pilot in C130 aircraft. While serving in the Air Force, Johnnie and Norma welcomed their two children, Darrell Wayne Holley and Tracy Lynn Holley.

In 1969, Johnnie made the decision to leave the Air Force and join Delta Airlines, a decision that he would always say was one of the toughest of his life due to his love for the military - made because he felt it was in the best interest of his family. He moved to Colleyville, Texas where he raised his kids, coached youth sports, served the causes that were important to him and pursued his passions for hunting, fishing, motorcycle racing, camping, canoeing and skiing.

Johnnie retired from Delta Airlines in August of 2001. After retirement, Johnnie decided to embark on a multi-year project to build his “log house by the lake”. He and Norma moved to Hawkins and spent the next 24 years traveling, reading, attending Texas A&M football games, pursuing his passion for historical preservation and honoring those that served their country.

Johnnie was a wonderful storyteller, a patient teacher, a steady hand in times of uncertainty, and a man who believed that the best way to lead was by example. He was a brilliant man of the highest integrity who loved his family deeply and unconditionally and would do almost anything for his friends.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Norma; his son, Darrell Holley; his daughter Tracy Rueschhoff; and his five grandchildren, Tanner Holley, Logan Holley, Bennett Holley, Morgan Rueschhoff and Ian Rueschhoff. He is also survived by his sister, Patsy Emmert, and his nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Graveside Services for Johnnie will be held on January 9, 2026, at 2:00 p.m at Aggie Field of Honor Cemetery in College Station, Texas, with Fr Greg Crosthwait officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Stewart Family Funeral Home. 

Johnnie’s legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave so freely.