Deaven Mitchell Holder, 18, of Mooresville, N.C., left this world for heaven on April 27, 2023. His passing has deeply saddened his family and loved ones, as we have lost a unique and beautiful soul. He was a treasured son, exemplary brother, best friend, and so much more to countless people. He was a true blessing to know and love, and he will continue to be loved by many.
Deaven was born at Lake Norman Regional Medical Center on December 21, 2004. He was to graduate from Lake Norman High School in June 2023. He was employed by On the Nines Restaurant in Mooresville. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Eaven David Holder, and his maternal grandparents, John and Beverly Saunders. Deaven is survived by his parents, Derrick and Carrie Holder; two sisters, Nicole Decker and husband Blaine, and Jessica Holder; his memaw, Glenna Holder; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends who are too numerous to name.
In his childhood, Deaven was an adorable, sandy blonde-haired, brown-eyed, chubby-cheeked, comedic athlete. We delighted in watching him grow into a tall, handsome, strong, and confident young man. He was a natural athlete in any sport he attempted, including baseball and swimming. He was a competitive swimmer beginning at age four, swimming with the Winslow Bay Wahoos in summer league. He progressed to swimming competitively for Swim Mac and Lowe’s Lightning swim teams. On Lowe’s Lightning, his accomplishments include high-point scorer over multiple years, qualifier for Y Nationals individual events in 50 freestyle, 100 freestyle, and 100 backstroke and was a proud member of the first men’s 4×4 Free Relay to qualify to Y Nationals. He swam for his high school teams as well. In 2020, during his freshman year at Pine Lake Prep, his relay team won the gold medal during the 1A/2A State Championship meet in the 400-freestyle relay along with the PLP men’s team clenching the State Championship title overall.
Deaven had a passion for the ocean, animals, and nature overall. As a child, he aspired to become a marine biologist. He enjoyed scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. He was unfiltered and independent, yet sensitive and incredibly compassionate. His strong-willed, stubborn, and outspoken nature were integral parts of who he was. He was artistic and creative. Deaven’s sense of humor, witty remarks, and larger-than-life personality brightened every room he entered and he could always make you laugh. His stunning and contagious smile touched everyone around him. Deaven’s caring nature left an impact on many lives just by being himself. He will be forever missed and remembered daily. Until we meet again, our sweet Dev is now at peace in heaven, reunited with his loving family beside Jesus.
A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, May 4, 2023, at 6 p.m. at The Quarry at Carrigan Farms, 1213 Oakridge Farm Highway, Mooresville NC 28115. This celebration will include food, firepit, and fellowship. Please plan to join us for the time of togetherness.
In lieu of flowers, please consider purchasing a bracelet from 4Ocean.com to support their cause of cleaning up our oceans. Wear the bracelet in honor of Deaven as he had a passion for their mission. In addition, donations can be made in his honor to Food for Days, P.O. Box 175, Mooresville NC 28115. Food for Days ministry was established by his grandfather and holds a special in our family.
Cavin-Cook Funeral Home and Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Holder family. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.