Joseph Hoey Holder

Mr. Joseph Hoey Holder, 86, of Lillington passed away February 9, 2026, at his residence with his family present.

Hoey, the son of the late Joe and Willa Holder was born October 28, 1939.  He graduated from Boone Trail School in 1958 and later earned an Associate Degree in Adult Instruction from Central Carolina Community College.  Employed by the NC Department of Community Colleges Hoey established the welding program at Bladen Technical Institute and taught welding for Johnston Community College and Central Carolina Community College for 27 years.  Hoey served 26 years in Company B, 2D Battalion 252D Armor NC Army National Guard retiring with Distinguished Honors as Staff Sergeant.  In 1977, Hoey joined the Boone Trail Ruritan Club and had perfect attendance until recently due to declining health.  Having the vision and overseeing the construction of the swimming pool in Mamers in 1971 was one of Hoey's best accomplishments for his community.  He was a member of Lillington Masonic Lodge 302 for 58 years.  He was also a lifetime member of Spring Hill United Methodist Church where he served simultaneously on all Committees and assisted Rev. Aaron Tyson in establishing the United Methodist Men. Hoey maintained and resided on his Century Family Farm of which he was very proud.

Hoey is survived by his wife of 60 years, Alpha; daughter, Elizabeth Nipper (Dan); son, Brian Holder (Dawn); daughter Emily Freeman (Jamie); and grandsons Bryce Nipper and Jacob Freeman; also sister Mary Holder; Daniel Nipper, and Brian Nipper.  He was preceded in death by a brother, Nelson and sisters Velva and Willa.

Anyone who knew Hoey was aware of his love for NASCAR and his love and dedication to go-kart racing.

The family will receive friends from 1:00-2:45 PM Thursday, February 12, 2026 at Spring Hill United Methodist Church in Lillington. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 PM at the church with Rev. Dr. Bobby Rackley officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.