Marietta, Georgia - Dr. Frankie "Leta" Holder peacefully transitioned to her heavenly home on Sunday, July 5, 2026.

She earned her bachelor's degree from Macon Nursing School and found her calling in psychiatric nursing, a field that proved to be a perfect fit for her compassionate spirit. A lifelong learner, she went on to earn a master's degree in nursing from the Medical College of Georgia and a doctorate in education from the University of Georgia.

Dr. Holder had the epitome of a generous heart, helping countless students pursue nursing degrees through both formal scholarships and quiet acts of support. Her career included more than 15 years as a psychiatric nurse at Central State Hospital and a similar tenure as a professor at Georgia College and State University's School of Nursing. Her calm, reassuring presence eased the anxieties of many students, along with her beloved story of the "warm fuzzies" and her assurance that State Boards would be a "piece of cake."

She welcomed many into her heart and home, including exchange students Dani Sakaya from Brazil and Rune Bui-Lorentzen from Norway, later visiting each in their home countries. She loved travel, both international and domestic, and often adopted fellow travelers along the way. As an evaluator for the National League for Nursing accreditation program, she traveled throughout the United States, from Bluebell, West Virginia, to Los Angeles, California.

Active in her church and community well into her eighties, Dr. Holder taught youth and Acteens at Ivey Baptist Church and served on medical mission trips to Brazil and Venezuela. As a member of First Presbyterian Church of Milledgeville, she helped establish hands-on mission projects, including Samaritan's Purse and other community initiatives. After moving to Marietta, Georgia, in 2019, she continued her faithful service at Wesley Chapel UMC.

At the recommendation of a beloved niece, she became a CASA volunteer and served until age 80, making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families at risk. She also initiated a support group for parents who had lost infants. Even after moving to assisted living, she continued to counsel, encourage, and comfort others. Many residents, staff, and family members at Benton House of Woodstock sought her wisdom and care.

Dr. Holder's circle of family and friends was immense. She leaves behind two daughters by birth, Wendy Brock, and Dawn Anderson; one daughter by choice, Flor Bondal; three sons-in-law, Hal Brock, Mitch Anderson, and Jerome Bondal; four grandchildren, Paul Brock and his wife, Grace, Tyler Anderson and his wife, Elizabeth, Paula Bondal and fiancé Alex, and Jeri Peacock and husband, Bim; and one great-grandchild, John Anderson.

A memorial service will be held at Ivey Baptist Church in Ivey, Georgia, on Aug. 15 at 2 p.m. Dr. Holder loved flowers, but she also loved helping others. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 210 S. Wayne St., Milledgeville, GA 31061, to continue the initiatives she helped organize there.