John "Johnny" H. Holcombe, JR.

Class of 

August 16, 1939 - August 8, 2022

Obituary

John “Johnny” Hugh Holcombe, Jr. 82, a man of honor and dignity who kept the faith passed to the Church Triumphant, Monday, August 8, 2022, in his home.

He was born on August 16, 1939, the son of John Hugh and Dorothy Holcombe in Greenville, SC. His family relocated to Myrtle Beach at an early age.

A graduate of Myrtle Beach High School, he then attended Clemson University. Upon returning home, he joined his father in ownership and operation of Holcombe Motor Company and Holcombe Sports Car Center in Myrtle Beach from 1959 to selling and retiring in 1986.

Johnny served as a member of Volkswagen of America dealer council, member of S. C. National Bank advisory board for 21 years, board member and past president of Dunes Golf & Beach Club. He was an IPTAY member at Clemson University for 51 continuous years and continued his service to Clemson as an IPTAY representative and IPTAY pass president. His love for his alma mater was shown in his support of the Clemson University Athletic Learning Center, Vickery Hall. He was awarded the prestigious Distinguished Service Award from Clemson University in 2007.

He was predeceased by his parents, John and Dorothy Holcombe and his sister, Lona Holcombe Cantrell and her husband, Bob.

Surviving Johnny is his high school sweetheart, Julia LaBruce, of 63 years, who was his loving companion and devoted care giver; his daughters, Julie Boggan (Steve) of Austin, TX, Deborah Owens (David) of Murrells Inlet, SC, and Lisa Shellhaas of Mt. Pleasant, SC; his grandchildren, LaBruce Boggan Trammell (Harrison) of Greenville, SC, Stephen Boggan (Liz) of Columbia, SC, Gates Shellhaas (fiancée, Callie Stewart) of James Island, SC, McMillan Owens and Heyward Owens, both of Murrells Inlet, SC; six great grandchildren and four special nephews and their families all survive him.

The family is grateful for the love and compassion from Willie, Tammi, and Amedisys Hospice.

Funeral service will be 1:00 PM, Thursday, August 11, 2022, at Trinity Church, Myrtle Beach.  A private family burial will follow at All Saints Episcopal Church Cemetery in Pawleys Island.  

The family will receive friends from 11:45 – 12:45 PM, Thursday, August 11, 2022, at the church.  

In lieu of flowers, the family ask memorials may be made to Trinity Church, 3000 N. Kings Hwy., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577.