James Otto Holzem Jr.

James “Jay” Otto Holzem Jr., aged 68, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2024, at his beloved ranch in Meridian, Texas. Jay was born on October 24, 1955, in Edinburg, Texas, to Jim and Ivy Holzem. He is survived by his siblings Debbie Summers, Diane “Louie” Peeler, and Marianne Holzem; his ex-wife, Debbie Dockery; their three children, Natalie Holzem, Laine Holzem, and James Holzem III; and numerous nieces and nephews.

 Jay's educational journey took him to Texas State University for his first two years before transferring to Texas A&M, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Building Construction and worked on oil rigs in Oklahoma during the summers. After moving to Dallas in 1978, he served as Director of Construction at Rosewood Hotels, where he oversaw the addition and remodeling of the Hotel Bel-Air in Beverly Hills, The Crescent in Dallas, and The Remington in Houston, among other projects. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Holzem Construction Company. He made significant contributions to commercial and residential construction both locally and across the United States, including work on the Texas Rangers Baseball Stadium as well as custom homes in Dallas and California. In 2008, Jay embraced his passion for ranching and became a full-time rancher, immersing himself in the Bosque County community. He was an active member of Spring Creek Baptist Church and enjoyed playing dominoes there every Tuesday.

 From an early age, Jay exhibited a talent for building and fixing things. In high school, his hobby of photography earned him a place on the school newspaper staff. His college home was a gathering spot for friends, hosting lively domino tournaments complete with bleachers in the living room for spectators. Jay’s adventurous spirit saw him deep-sea fishing in Central America, where he once caught three sailfish off the coast of Garza, Costa Rica. He was a fan of Texas country music and attended Willie Nelson’s second annual Fourth of July picnic. Later in life, he developed a passion for restoring vintage tube amps and speakers, always tinkering and figuring things out. Jay’s evenings were often spent riding around the ranch with his faithful dog, Pup.

 A funeral service to honor Jay's life will be held on Monday, July 29th, at 1 PM at Spring Creek Baptist Church in Iredell, Texas. This will be followed by a celebration of life in the church’s recreation center, where friends and family can share memories of a man who touched so many with his generosity, ingenuity, and love for the land and people around him.

 Jay Holzem’s legacy is one of hard work, creativity, and a deep love for his family and community. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Arrangements were entrusted to Lawson Funeral Home, Meridian, Texas 254-435-2792.