James Carroll Holt

James Carroll Holt, known to many as Greaseball, 77, of Danville, Virginia, peacefully entered his heavenly home on July 16, 2026, following a courageous nine-year battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his family. A proud United States Navy Seabee, Vietnam veteran, devoted husband, loving father, cherished Papa, and faithful Christian, James leaves behind a legacy of faith, strength, hard work, and unwavering love for his family.

Born on February 9, 1949, in Danville, Virginia, James was the son of the late Thomas Lee Holt and Pauline Lynch Holt. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved sister, Iris Holt.

James attended Dan River High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy as a Seabee during the Vietnam War. His military service was a source of great pride and reflected the dedication, perseverance, and patriotism that remained with him throughout his life.

Following his service in the Navy, James spent his career as a truck driver. He believed in working hard, providing for his family, and doing whatever was necessary to care for those he loved. He was known for his strength, determination, loyalty, and willingness to stand up for what he believed. Those who knew him best knew they could always count on him.

Above all else, James loved his family. He shared a devoted marriage with his beloved wife, Janice George Holt, and together they built a life centered on faith, love, and commitment.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Janice George Holt; his son, James C. Holt, Jr. ("Jamie") and wife, Michele; his daughter, Janet Holt Durham and husband, Wayne; his cherished grandchildren, Parker Holt, Hallie James Holt, and Emily Grace Durham; his beloved step-granddaughters, Desiree Durham and Brianna Durham, who were loved just as deeply and held a special place in his heart; his brothers, Norman Holt, Robert Holt, and Noel Holt; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends, as well as a sister in law, Lynne Phelps and husband Phil.

His grandchildren were the light of his life. Whether by birth or by marriage, he loved each of his grandchildren unconditionally, and being "Papa" was one of his greatest joys. Nothing brought him greater happiness than attending their activities, celebrating their accomplishments, and simply spending time with them. His family was his greatest blessing.

A man of deep Christian faith, James relied on the Lord throughout every season of his life. During his nine-year battle with cancer, he faced each challenge with courage, determination, and unwavering faith. He never stopped fighting and never lost sight of what mattered most—his family. Even through the difficult days, he remained steadfast, and his resilience inspired everyone who knew him. While his family grieves his loss, they find comfort in knowing he is now healed, at peace, and in the presence of his Lord and Savior.

James will be remembered for his love of family, his faithful service to his country, his tireless work ethic, and his strong, determined spirit. He was fiercely loyal, protective of those he loved, and never afraid to speak his mind. His legacy of faith, perseverance, strength, loyalty, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Medi Home Hospice for the exceptional compassion, dignity, and care they provided throughout James's final journey.

The family would especially like to thank Mary Sue Woodson, James's hospice nurse with Medi Home Hospice, for her exceptional compassion, professionalism, and devoted care. Her kindness, encouragement, and unwavering support brought comfort and peace to James and to our entire family during his final journey. We will always be grateful for the difference she made in his life and ours.

The family would also like to express their deepest appreciation to Stephanie Wilis Davis, a longtime family friend and dedicated employee of Medi Home Hospice. Stephanie's compassion, friendship, and unwavering support were an incredible blessing to James and to the entire family. Her care extended far beyond her professional responsibilities, and her love, kindness, and devotion brought comfort and peace during one of the most difficult seasons of our lives. We will always be grateful for the difference she made.

A very special thank you is also extended to Stephanie Holland, James's devoted sitter. Her patience, compassion, kindness, and loving presence brought comfort, dignity, and companionship to James. The care and friendship she shared with him were a tremendous blessing, and her support brought peace and reassurance to our entire family. Her devotion and loving care will never be forgotten.

The family would also like to offer special thanks to James's wonderful neighbors and dear friends, John and Jackie Esposito, Murray and Robin Whittle, Paul and Van Holt, and Patricia Hayes. Your friendship, generosity, unwavering support, and countless acts of kindness meant more than words can express. Day after day, you were there to check on James and Janice, lend a helping hand, offer encouragement, and assist in any way you could. Your steadfast presence carried our family through some of our most difficult days, and we will forever be grateful for your love and friendship.

The family also wishes to thank everyone who offered prayers, visits, meals, phone calls, cards, and countless other expressions of love and support throughout James's illness and passing. Your kindness strengthened and comforted our family more than words can express.

While our hearts are broken, we rejoice in knowing that James's suffering has ended and that he is now at home with his Lord and Savior. His love, strength, faith, determination, and unwavering devotion to his family will continue to inspire us, and his memory will forever remain in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fairview Church in Danville, Virginia, and to the Disabled American Veterans in memory of James Carroll Holt.

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."

— 2 Timothy 4:7–8 (KJV)

A Funeral Service will be conducted on Monday, July 20, 2026 at 2:00pm at Fairview Church, 1013 Westover Drive, Danville, VA 24541, with Reverend Ryan Beavers and Reverend Barry L. Taylor officiating. Interment will follow at Highland Burial Park, Danville, VA. A visitation will be held on the same day just prior to the service from 1-2:00pm also at Fairview Church. At other times, the family will receive friends at the residence.

Norris Funeral Services, Inc. & Crematory, Mt. Hermon Chapel, Danville, VA is respectfully serving the Holt Family. Online condolences may be made at www.norrisfuneral.com.