The Holloway Family: A Lasting Legacy in Justin 

When Susie Holloway first moved to Justin, Texas, she recalls being greeted by a town with a population of around 300 people. It was a place where "everybody knew everybody," and the sense of community was undeniable. You could walk down the street and recognize every face, and the town was small enough that even the most fleeting encounters felt meaningful. For Susie, a girl who had grown up in the small town of Spearman, Texas, this new chapter in Justin was a chance to create new memories while still enjoying the charm of a small-town lifestyle. 

Back then, Justin was a slower-paced town, where things seemed simpler and life felt more relaxed. The town boasted only one café and two convenience stores, including the iconic Williams Drive-In. It was here where locals would stop in to grab the infamous "Gilmer Dog," a simple hot dog that quickly became a favorite among residents. Susie fondly remembers her children riding their bikes around town at night, something she never worried about because the community was so tight-knit. If they were doing anything wrong, you bet that house phone would start ringing—because everybody knew everybody. It was a time when families looked out for one another, and the town felt like an extended family. 

But the impact of Susie and her husband Jack Holloway on Justin goes far beyond just being active members of the community. The Holloway family has had a profound influence on many of the town's young men, particularly through Jack's generosity in offering them opportunities to work alongside him harvesting. Jack, who ran many businesses including Holloway Harvesting gave many young boys in the area a chance to learn responsibility, hard work, and discipline. This was more than just a job for these boys—it was a chance to gain valuable life skills and form a sense of pride in their work. Many of these young men still return to check in on Susie, often bringing their families with them, as a testament to the positive impact that she and Jack had on their lives. 

As Justin has grown over the years, Susie has watched with a mixture of pride and nostalgia. While she appreciates the improvements—such as more dining options like Joe’s and the addition of pizza places and a Sonic—she admits that part of her still longs for the small-town life she experienced when she first arrived. “I don’t really like the growth because I prefer a small town,” she says with a wistful smile. “The only thing is there aren’t enough roads.” Despite this, she’s grateful for the conveniences that come with a growing town, like the ability to shop for groceries more easily and the variety of dining options that have emerged. “We’ve got pizza now! And Joe’s is a favorite place for everyone,” she adds. 

Still, Susie’s love for Justin goes deeper than just its modern-day conveniences. It’s the memories and the people that have made the town what it is. She fondly remembers the simpler days when the community gathered for events like the Hardemon Rodeo and local dances. “Back then, we’d invite the whole class to birthday parties—nobody was left out,” she says with a smile, reflecting on the inclusivity and warmth of those early years. It was a time when everyone truly looked out for one another, and that sense of unity has stayed with Susie through the years. 

Despite the town's growth and the inevitable changes that come with it, Susie has held on to what makes Justin special to her: its warmth, its people, and the enduring sense of community. While she enjoys the new additions and conveniences, she still yearns for some of the old-time comforts. “We need a country café that serves meals from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm,” she says. 

Through all the changes, one thing has remained constant for Susie Holloway: their love for Justin and their commitment to making it a better place for everyone. Their legacy in the community is evident not only in the lives of the young men Jack mentored but also in the bonds they’ve created with their neighbors. The Holloways are more than just residents of Justin—they are a part of its heart. 

“Justin has gotten better, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” Susie says, reflecting on the town's growth and how far it’s come. For Susie, Justin will always be home—a place that may have changed, but still feels like family. And as long as Susie is here, the essence of Justin will remain in the memories of those who have been touched by the Holloway family’s love and generosity.