Edward Ray "Eddie" Holder, 73, of Lillington, NC passed away Saturday December 4, 2021, at Central Harnett Hospital.

He was born October 28, 1948, in Erwin, NC to the late Syvada Grissom Holder and Alton Holder. Eddie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helen Long Holder.

Eddie attended Boone Trail High School in Mamers, graduating with the class of 1967. He received his undergraduate degree from Campbell University. Eddie received his doctorate degree in Pharmacy from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. In his early years, Eddie attended Spring Hill United Methodist Church and went on to attend Liberty Baptist Church in Spring Lake. Eddie worked on the Holder Family Farm along with his brother and sister for many years. Eddie loved ice cold Pepsi, NASCAR, Willie Nelson, and his faithful furry companions, Rollie and Ruffie. He enjoyed caring for his garden, especially his cantaloupes and watermelons which he loved sharing with the community. Eddie was an avid sports fan who loved to cheer for the UNC Tarheels. He cherished the memories shared with his family.

He is survived by his children, Candace Holder Stephens and husband Bo, Bridget Holder Cox and husband Richie, Marie Long, and Jim Long; his grandchildren, Brayden and Cade Stephens, Olivia and Griffin Cox, Marianne Long, and Jaxon Long; his sister, Elaine Holder Currin and husband James; his brother, Graham Flynn Holder and wife Sylvia; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to visit O'Quinn-Peebles-Phillips Funeral Home on Thursday, December 9, 2021, between the hours of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to sign the guest register book. The family will not be present during this time. A private graveside service for the family will be held at a later date at the Holder Family Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Liberty Baptist Church Playground Fund at 1625 Ray Rd. Spring Lake, NC 28390.

In accordance with current North Carolina COVID-19 guidelines, the funeral home requests that everyone in attendance practice social distancing and wear a face covering.