Austin Holiman

Austin Nathaniel Holiman entered our lives with gentleness and joy on August 12, 2002 and made our lives so much brighter.  Austin left us far too soon on December 19, 2021 and our hearts are grieving as 19 precious years was not near enough time with him.

Austin leaves behind a large family who adored him.  His parents, Chad and Bridgett Derrick and maternal grandparents, Timothy and Sheila Barnett.  Austin also leaves behind a brother and sister, Cody and Bailey Holiman, who were each loved greatly by their big brother.  They all cheered him on at every accomplishment and event and were his biggest fans and supporters.

Austin was loved by all who were blessed to know him.  This includes a large family of grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends that are family including Michael Johnson and his entire football team at Glen Rose High School.  Austin loved football and the Glen Rose Beavers.  His teammates and coaches were among his most cherished relationships.

Austin was hard working and loyal on and off the field.  Whatever Austin did, he did with integrity, respect, and grit.  In his Senior year of high school, Austin was awarded the Brandon Burlsworth Award by his football coaches.  The award speaks to his strong character and work ethic.  Austin’s strong character was displayed on the field, in the classroom and throughout his life.  Austin was a smart and determined student which earned him an academic scholarship to Southern Arkansas University where he was currently a freshman and planned to pursue a career in Marine Biology.

Pallbearers will be his friends and teammates:  TJ Robinson, Hunter Best, Wesley Launius, Noah Wright, Colton Hixon, and Dalton Bell.  Honorary pallbearers are the entire Glen Rose Beaver football team and coaching staff.  Austin loved you all.

As we gather to grieve and celebrate his life, the family requests everyone wear Austin’s favorite color (blue) or a Glen Rose Beavers shirt and jeans to both visitation and funeral.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM, Wednesday, December 22, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton.  Funeral service held at 11:00 AM, Thursday, December 23, at Ten Mile Missionary Baptist Church, 17511 Church Road, Lonsdale, Arkansas with burial following at Ten Mile Cemetery.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home.  Online guestbook:  www.SmithFamilyCares.com.