William A. Holdren
In contemplating the many estimable qualities of the late William A. Holdren, integrity and industry appear as prominent characteristics, an integrity that no personal or other consideration could swerve and an industry that knew no rest while anything remained undone. When a given task was accomplished he would throw off all care, retire to his home and loved ones and devote himself to domestic and social enjoyment for which he had the keenest zest and relish. His temper was calm and equable and his manners those of the gentleman. His devotion to every-day duty was intense, and although his life was a busy one yet he never allowed it to interfere with his Christian obligations or the faithful performance of his church duties. Always calm and straightforward, never demonstrative, his life was a steady effort for the worth of Christian doctrine, the purity and grandeur of Christian principles and the beauty and elevation of Christian character. He commanded the respect of all classes by his exemplary life, and his memory will long be revered by his many friends and acquaintances.
William A. Holdren was born in Buckskin township, Ross county, Ohio, May 26, 1859, and died at his handsome country home in Wayne township, Fayette county, Ohio, January 5, 1905. He was the son of John W. and Mary (James) Holdren. His father was a native of Virginia, coming to Ross county, Ohio, with his parents when he was only three years of age. In that county he grew to manhood, married and reared a family of seven children, William A., Mrs. Mattie Harper, R. G., Otto, Lily, Olive and Lafayette. Only three of these children are now living, Otto, R. G. and Lafayette.
William A. Holdren was educated at the Pisgah and South Star schools in this county. When a young man he worked at the carpenter trade and followed that until he married and then he engaged in farming in Ross county, this state. In 1900 he came to Fayette county and purchased his farm of one hundred and eighty-three acres in Wayne township. He was an excellent farmer, and although a resident of this county but five years, yet in that short time he impressed his neighbors as a man of fine ability and a man who always strived to do the right thing.
Mr, Holdren was married September 18, 1884, to Arizona B. Rogers, daughter of William and Malinda (Divens) Rogers. Her father was a native of this township, and to him and his wife were born three children, Arizona, Mrs. Jennie Culy, and Samuel H., deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Holdren were the parents of three children, Lee. Glenn R. and Esta M., Lee being deceased. Mr. Holdren was a lifelong member of the Methodist Episcopal church, while his wife still holds her membership in the Baptist church. He was a man of pleasing presence and easily made friends. His upright career and wholesome moral influence made him a popular man in the community. His influence was always salutary and his example worthy of imitation. Such a man is a blessing to any community and it is eminently fitting that his career be placed in this biographical history of his county.
From History of Fayette County Ohio - Her People, Industries and Institutions by Frank M. Allen (1914, R. F. Bowen & Company, Inc.)