MSU mourns the death of Tim Holbrook

Tim Holbrook (Class of 1994, 2001), chief photographer for Morehead State University, died Monday, June 19, at the age of 50.  

Known for his quick smile and humble attitude, Holbrook began his career in what is now the Office of Communications and Marketing in 1995. During his years of service, he documented some of Morehead State’s most historic moments and served as an adjunct instructor in the Department of Communications, Media, Art & Design.

Holbrook also worked as a freelance photographer and a sports stringer for the Morehead News. His photographs played an integral role in several award-winning publications over the past several years. 

Holbrook’s photography was published in state and national magazines and was displayed in exhibitions across the Commonwealth. He was a former member of the Rowan County Educational Foundation and spent summers as a campground host at Cave Run Lake area campgrounds.  

Holbrook was a two-time graduate of MSU, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art with honors in 1994 and a Master of Arts in Studio Art in 2001. In 1991, he was named the University’s Outstanding Freshman Art Student, and in 1994, he was named the University’s Outstanding Senior Art Student and Outstanding Undergraduate Student. He was a graduate of West Carter County High School.  

Holbrook is survived by his husband, Tony Netherly; a daughter, Kendra Holbrook; a son, Grant Holbrook, and numerous family members, friends, and colleagues.  

Memorial contributions may be made to the Morehead State University Foundation’s Timothy W. Holbrook Memorial Scholarship, PO Box 628, Morehead, Kentucky 40351, or online at alumni.moreheadstate.edu/timholbrook. 

A visitation will be held at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals on Friday, June 23, from 4 to 7 p.m.