Dr. Francis "Frank" E. Holman of Richmond, Indiana went peacefully into the presence of his Lord surrounded by family and friends on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at Arbor Trace Family-first Senior Living.  His battle with Alzheimer's disease in recent years showed his strong faith and courage in facing life challenges with his trademark smile and gentle spirit.

Frank was born in a farmhouse on July 24, 1927, in New Marion, Indiana to Leo and Lona Holman.  At the age of two, the family moved to Richmond, Indiana for a short time and then to Pontiac, Michigan. He graduated from Pontiac Central High School in 1944.  After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country during the end of World War II.

Frank was honorably discharged from the navy in 1946 and immediately enrolled in the Michigan School of Barbering.  Upon graduation, Frank opened his own shop operating it for 16 years.  1946 was also the year he met the love of his life, Amy June Preston.  Frank and Amy married on June 19, 1948.  They would spend the next 76 years faithfully living life together.

In March of 1956, Frank had a spiritual encounter with the Lord Jesus Christ that forever changed his life.  Shortly thereafter, he enrolled in Midwestern Baptist College where he graduated with a bachelor's degree in biblical studies.  He also had a master's degree from Wayne State University and a D.Div. degree in theology from Louisiana Baptist University.

In 1964, Frank moved his family to Richmond, Indiana and founded the Hillcrest Baptist Church.  The very first service for Hillcrest was held on March 6, 1964.  Frank spent the next 36 years sharing the message of Jesus Christ with the community of Richmond and literally around the world through his world-wide mission work. He also spent 6 years as President of Midwestern Baptist College and Pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Pontiac, Michigan (1987 – 1993).  Only eternity will reveal the influence his ministry has had on countless numbers of people.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 76 years, Amy Holman.  His three sons, Martin (Susan) Holman, Michael (Kati) Holman and Matthew (Joy) Holman.  His eight grandchildren, Martin (Carie) Holman, Amie (Phil) Voss, Brooke Holman, Michael (Jessica) Holman, Tim Holman, Keri (Darren) McGuire, Angel (Jason) Mahr, Jake (Ashley) Holman and his 26 great grandchildren, Sawyer Holman, Scarlett Holman, Marishka Holman, Zander Holman, Chelsea Voss, Mykenna Voss, Philip Voss, Jonathan Holman, Meghan Holman, Josiah Holman, Jakob (Audrey) Bush, Jesse McGuire, Micah McGuire, Cameron (Julie) Holman, Claire Holman, Caloway Holman, Mac Holman, Levi Holman, Cameron Mahr, Sydney Mahr, Griffin Mahr, Chandler Mahr, Rocco Mahr, London Holman, Kingston Holman and Oakland Holman.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Lona Holman, one sister, Eileen Everett, and a great-great grandchild Vanessa Voss.

The family will receive friends on Monday, October 28, 2024, from 11:00 A. M. to 2:00 P.M. at Hillcrest Baptist Church, 3469 Hillcrest Road, Richmond Indiana with the service following at 2:00 P.M. with Dr. Richard Powers and Dr. Darrell Kepler officiating.  Internment will take place at Elkhorn Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to Hillcrest Baptist Church.  Stegall-Berheide-Orr Funeral Service is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at stegallberheideorr.com.