Herbert Gordon Holcomb

Herbert Gordon Holcomb

The eldest son of Elva (McKeown) and Joseph L. Holcomb was born near Springdale, Arkansas, the town that history gives his g-g-grandfather, Rev. John Holcomb, the credit of being its founder. When asked about his relationship to Rev. John, Herbert enjoyed beginning by saying that he, and each of his direct Holcomb ancestors were the first sons. Then he would repeat: ?I am Herbert, son of Joseph Latimer; Joseph Latimer, son of W. Herbert; W. Herbert, son of Joseph; Joseph, son of Rev. John.? Then Herbert usually added, ?And my son John Gordon carried on this first son tradition by naming his son Joseph Charles.?

Herbert carried on many of the other Holcomb traditions. As an avocation, he bought, developed, and sold much real estate, similarly to Rev. John. Also, he was active in community affairs and committed to his church and to God all of his life.

Herbert?s had a thirst for knowledge that led him to seek advanced education by enlisting for six years in the U. S. Navy immediately after graduating from Springdale High School. He later earned two bachelor degrees and a master?s degree from the University of Arkansas. He shared his knowledge in various ways, including discussions with his fellow employees of Southwestern Electric Power Co. where he served as an electrical engineer for 25 years. Also, he taught for a few years in public schools, in the Springdale Post-secondary School, and in his church.

But, Herbert is best known for his love of people. He showered love and care on his wife, Henrietta, their three children--Jo, Margaret, and John--and their spouses and children. He enjoyed many happy times with grandparents, Emma (Klemme) and Stephen McKeown; his brothers, Bob and Dwight; his sisters, Joelva and Beverly; and their families.

Wherever Herbert went, he would stop and visit with people. He made friends with people from all parts of the world. He usually invited them to come to his home as many of them did. One of them, Ardy Sidhwa a native of Pakistan, became his ?adopted? son. In return, Herbert was admired by all who knew him.