Melvan "Doc" L. Holliday

Melvan “Doc” L. Holliday, age 69, of Russellville, passed away on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at his residence.

Melvan was born on December 7, 1953, in Unionville, a son to the late John and Mary (Hackney) Holliday.

Melvan was a 1972 graduate of Hickman High School in Columbia and a 1974 graduate of Linn Technical College with a degree in automotive mechanics. 

On May 23, 1981, he was united in marriage to Audrey Ridenhour in Holts Summit.  She survives at their home.

Melvan was employed as a corrections officer with the Missouri Department of Corrections at the Church Farm and Tipton prisons for 23 years, retiring in 2012.

Melvan spent many hours working with his horses.  He was an avid collector of guns and knives.  His greatest enjoyment was spending time with his family, especially his dog Lucky.

In addition to his wife of 42 years, Melvan is survived by his two children, Shannon “Hoss” Holliday of California and Sarah Carroll and her husband Andrue of Dexter, KY.; two grandchildren, Kyler, Lily Carroll and one on the way; one brother, Kevan Holliday of Jefferson City and a sister-in-law, Faye Holliday of Columbia; along with several nieces, nephews and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Elvan Holliday. 

Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 7, 2023, at Pilot Knob Baptist Church near Belle with Funeral Service to follow at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Alan Earls officiating.  Interment will follow in the Pilot Knob Cemetery. 

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Tunnels to Towers (https://t2t.org) or to the Samaritan’s Purse.