Carl Holyfield, 83, went peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior on October 7, 2013 surrounded by his loving family. He was a lifelong native of Simpson County, MS. Carl's life could be best characterized by his unconditional love for his family and his sincere love for his extended family and friends. He was passionate about having as many family events as possible. This meant he would see most of his seventy two immediate family members and he would take any chance to brag about them and their accomplishments. He was a member of Stonewall Baptist Church. After serving his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, he began his employment in the oil field as a welder where he retired from Diamond Offshore.
Carl is preceded in death by his Parents, Frank Elias and Etta Moore Holyfield, Wife of forty nine years, Mary Jones Holyfield. Brothers: Clyde Holyfield, E.L. Holyfield and Billy Robert Holyfield. Sisters: Beatrice Barnes and Willie Richardson. Sons-in-law: Leon Mars Jr., Charles E. Craft and Grandson, Chad McGee.
Carl is survived by his wife: Ora Mae Benson Holyfield of Magee, Two Sons: Ronald Holyfield (Paula), of Mendenhall and Kevin Holyfield (Cheryl) of Byram,; Five Daughters: Melba Davis (Dale) of Bay Saint Louis, Linda Wilborn (Bo) of Magee, Anita Craft Welch (Tim) of Magee, Sherri Darden (Johnny Mack) of Mize and Suzanne Brown Clark of Long Beach. One Stepson: John Benson (Sarah) of New Hebron and One Stepdaughter: Sherry McCardle (Robert) of Wesson. Seventeen Grandchildren,Twenty two Great Grandchildren and One Great, Great Grandchild. One Brother: Tommy Holyfield of Mendenhall; One Sister: Frankie Contas of New York. A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and lifelong friends that were considered extended family.
Visitation is Wednesday, October 09, 2013 from 4:00-9:00 and the celebration of his life will be Thursday, October 10, 2013 at 3:00 at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home in Magee.