James “Marvin” Holifield was born on Oct. 2, 1935, in Ellisville, Miss., to John and Emily Holifield. He peacefully passed away on Feb. 15, 2026.
Marvin was raised working in the cotton fields of Mississippi, where he learned the value of hard work at an early age. While attending school in Ellisville, he met the love of his life, Jessie Holifield. After completing the eighth grade, Marvin began working at a lumber yard. When the company relocated to Humble, Texas, he followed for work. During that time, he and Jessie faithfully wrote letters to one another until her 18th birthday. Marvin then returned to Mississippi to marry his sweetheart. Together, they moved back to Texas and eventually made their home in Splendora, where they built a beautiful life together.
A man of many talents and few words, Marvin worked as a logger, a school mechanic, and later at Tuboscope. His strong work ethic carried him well into his 80s, when he continued logging alongside his son, Darrell. Marvin believed in staying busy and took pride in providing for his family.
Marvin was known for his sense of humor and his love of life. He cherished time spent at Lake Livingston, where he enjoyed riding around the lake and fishing with family and friends. He also loved playing volleyball and spent many weekends and evenings competing with his team. He proudly kept the trophies and shirts they won over the years.
Above all, Marvin’s greatest joy was his family. He loved when they came to visit, especially the younger children, whom he delighted with stories, laughter, and play.
Marvin was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 60 years, Jessie Holifield; his parents, John and Emily Holifield; and his siblings: brothers Maurice Holifield and wife Pearl, Haurice Holifield and wife Avalee, Melvin Holifield, Alson Holifield, and Johnie Holifield; and sisters Marezella Landrum and husband Sharp, and Bertha Landrum and husband El.
He is survived by his sons, Otis Holifield and wife Debbie, and Darrell Holifield and wife Kathy; his daughter, Vickie Ward and husband J.L.; his special friend, Linda Perkins; his sister-in-law, Ann Holifield; along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Marvin will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy of hard work, devotion to family, and joyful spirit will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.