John Gary Holbein, 82

May 5, 1943 – January 10, 2026

John Gary Holbein, known as John in Mississippi and Gary in California, and remembered as a good man, neighbor, and friend to many, entered into the presence of his dear Savior, Jesus Christ, on Saturday, January 10, 2026. He passed peacefully in the comfort of his home, surrounded by loved ones.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM on Saturday, January 24, 2026, in the Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral Home. Bro. Doc Shelton will officiate. At 3:00 PM, family and friends are invited to share memories and reflections honoring the life of this remarkable man, followed by full military honors presented by the honor guard in recognition of his faithful service.

Born May 5, 1943, in Miami, Florida, Mr. John was the son of the late Leonard and Connie Mercer Holbein. He received his education at Miami Edison High School before answering the call to faithfully serve his country.

Originally setting out to join the United States Marine Corps, Mr. John experienced a change in plans and instead enlisted in the United States Air Force. Serving as a crew chief and flight engineer during the Vietnam War, he was awarded the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross for bravery. Throughout his military service, he was afforded the opportunity to live in various locations and travel extensively, experiences that broadened his perspective and allowed him to see much of the world. During this time, he also completed numerous educational courses, further expanding his expertise in aircraft maintenance.

Following his honorable discharge, Mr. John continued to apply his skills in civilian aviation, working with Orion Air, UPS, and ultimately FedEx, where he served in the maintenance control office in Memphis, Tennessee. His career once again allowed him to live in different places and experience new communities, making friends wherever he went. Known for his professionalism, dedication, and steady character, he earned the respect of colleagues throughout the aviation industry.

On May 22, 1998, he married his beloved wife, Mrs. Sherry Quinn Holbein, who survives him. Together, they settled in the Tiplersville community, a place they both cherished dearly and building a life rooted in love, faith, and family,

A devoted Christian, Mr. John was a man of simple pleasures and an easy-going nature. In earlier years, he found great joy in  traveling, scuba diving, fishing, hunting, and spending time in the Everglades—often joking about how fortunate he was not to have been eaten by an alligator. In his later years, he especially enjoyed gathering with his “Breakfast Club,” a close-knit group of friends who regularly met at a local diner to share meals, laughter, and fellowship—something he truly treasured.

Mr. John took great pride in his home, his yard, and his neighborhood. He was known for his thoughtfulness and generosity, often mowing not only his own yard but also those of his neighbors and family members, simply because he cared. That was the kind of man he was—helpful, kind, and always willing to lend a hand.

A wonderful husband, a devoted father, and a true friend, Mr. John will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Yet, as people of faith, we do not grieve as those without hope. We take comfort in knowing that he is now forever healed and at peace, and we hold fast to the legacy of love, service, and faith that he leaves behind.

In addition to his wife, Mrs. Sherry, memories will continue to be shared by one daughter, Lisa Driscoll (Mike), two sons, Brady Holbein (Amber), and Scott Holbein (Jodi), two stepdaughters, Crystal Massey and Joy Mauney (Kipper), sixteen grandchildren, three step grandchildren, twenty-one great grandchildren, and multiple nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Mr. John was also preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Linda Holbein, and his brother, Michael Holbein.

The family would like to express a special thanks to the wonderful group at Gentiva Hospice, along with family and friends, for their wisdom, care, and love given to Mr. John during his illness.

As Mr. John had a great love for his country and all kinds of animals, in lieu of flowers donations can be directed to any Veterans Organization or Animal Rescue that you may see fit.

Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories with Mr. John’s family.

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

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Gathering of Family and Friends

Saturday
January 24, 2026
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral