James Holden

The life of James J. A. Holden (Joey) began when he blessed his parents, Dr. James J. Holden, PhD and Ruth G. Holden on July 17, 1956 in Denver Colorado.  James was the first born of their three children, a brother Timmothy Audwin (Timmy) and sister, Leta Ruth (Nina).

James lived a very happy childhood!  He was very helpful with anything that was asked of him and managed being a big brother very well!

James graduated from George Washington High School in Denver.  While there, he excelled in sports and continued his education at the Colorado State University Pueblo and the University of Denver.

James pursued football by training and trying out for professional football teams.  He also included weightlifting as part of his training regime.  In May 1981, James signed a football two-year contract with the Houston Oilers of the NFL as a free agent. He tried out as a safety. He played semi-professional football also.  In later years, James sponsored a football camp for children near his home in Denver.

James worked several years as a pressman at a commercial printing company in the Metro area.  James was also a master of many trades!  He was a quick learner and excelled at whatever task that was put before him.  His daughter Janae’ often said that he was a hard worker and he could build a house from the ground up!  James also received several awards as a maintenance worker!

James was blessed with four beautiful children; James Maurice (Jay), Janae’ Nicole (Nae’ Nae’), Joseph William (Joey), and Justin Anthony!

James was very proud of his children!  He attended their school activities; football, basketball and soccer games as they grew up and graduated high school.  One of James’ very proud moments was to walk Janae’ down the isle when she married Marcus Pope.  He affectionally called her “Honey Bunch” ever since the day she was born!

Janae’ and her husband Marcus blessed James again with two grandchildren; Jace Levi and Jaya Naomi.

James loved playing the drums and other instruments.  He also “LOVED” his motorcycle and rode it every chance he got!  His son Joey has special memories of his dad riding him around the block on the back of the motorcycle when he was in his youth!

James J.A. Holden departed this life on March 19, 2021, in Aurora Colorado; joining his mother, Ruth G. Holden; brother, Timmothy Audwin Holden, and his sister, Leta Ruth Holden.

Those left to cherish his memory include his father, Dr. James J. Holden, PhD; his children, James Maurice Holden Denver, Janae’ Nicole Pope (Marcus) Aurora; Joseph William Holden Denver, Justin Anthony Holden Aurora; two grandchildren, Jace Levi Pope and Jaya Naomi Pope both of Aurora.  James also leaves behind his two nephews, who are very special to him, Terrence and Quincy Carter both live in Denver; and a host of other relatives and many friends.