Melissa "Missy" Anne Holder

      With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Melissa “Missy” Holder, who left this world on February 19, 2026.

     Missy entered this world on March 6, 1969, in Swain County, North Carolina, to Carolyn Mintz and Willis Holder. She was reunited in Heaven with her beloved father, Willis Holder; her grandparents, James and Mae Mintz; and her precious niece, Chasity Holder.

     She is survived by her loving mother, Carolyn Mintz; her siblings, Sherry Pfeiffer (Albert), Scott Holder, and Cathey Lane. While Missy had no children of her own, her greatest joy was her nieces and nephews. She leaves behind her nieces, Jessica Hughey (Rob), Kimberly Lovell (Luke), Nikki Stewart (Caleb), and Amber Lane; her nephews, Jason Holder (Mandi) and Waylon Holder; and her treasured great-nieces and great-nephews, Sophia, Kaitlyn, Rebecca, Nathan, Sadie, Bradley, Chloe, Chasity, Marshal, Trevor, and Tate. She also leaves behind countless extended family members and dear friends who were blessed to know and love her.

     Missy was the light in every room she entered. She had a heart that loved deeply and without limits, and she carried a quiet strength that steadied everyone around her. She was a second mother, a steady presence, and a safe place for so many. She helped raise those she loved, walked beside them through life’s joys and heartbreaks, and never once hesitated to show up when she was needed most.

     She had a beautiful way of making everyone feel seen, valued, and deeply cared for. Whether through her comforting words, her warm hugs, or simply her faithful presence, she carried a love that leaves a permanent imprint on our hearts.

     A celebration of Missy’s life will be held at 11:00 am Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at the Townson-Smith Chapel.  Reverend Jason Holder will officiate.  Burial will follow the service at Breedlove Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 10:00 till 11:00 am on Tuesday at the Chapel prior to the service.

     Though we cannot imagine life without her here, we carry her love with us always. Her voice, her laughter, and her unwavering devotion will forever echo in our hearts.

     Townson-Smith Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Holder Family.