of Little Rock, AR
August 12, 1932 - May 13, 2022
John L. Holt, LtCol, USAF (ret) passed away on May 13, 2022. He is survived by his daughter, Laurie E. Holt of Little Rock and preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Mary A. Holt. Colonel Holt was born in Gainesville, Georgia. He graduated from Highland Park High School in Illinois and received his college degree from The University of Nebraska at Omaha.
In the military he flew fighters, bombers, transports and helicopters. He served a tour in Iceland, Spain and two tours in Vietnam, where he was shot down near the DMZ and barely escaped capture. He was Commander of the C-130 Rescue Squadron and 2 Helicopter Detachments in Vietnam. He was awarded 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 6 Air Medals, Bronze Star, 2 Commendation Medals and the Purple Heart.
After retirement in 1973, his employer sent him to Little Rock, where he worked until retirement in 2015. He was President of Avis Truck Rental, Vice President of Baker Leasing Corporation and District Manager for Gelco Corporation. He served on the Board of Directors for Baker Leasing Corporation and Baker Car & Truck Rental. For many years he was a commercial property manager for Vogel Enterprise. He was a past President of the Arkansas Car and Truck Rental Association.
In lieu of any flowers, he wishes any donations be made to the Pulaski County Humane Society, He will be buried next to his wife in Bainbridge, Georgia.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
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13 Condolence(s)
Teresa Roper
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
We were sorry to hear about the passing of John, he was my mom's, Ann Hughes , nephew, John and her talked often about past memories. He was a very special person.
Karen Mcclain
Sunday, June 5, 2022
I am so sorry to hear of this loss of John
Laurie, I am Praying for you & family & friends as well. May God Bless you All ðŸ™ðŸ» â¤ï¸ðŸ¤ðŸ’™
Donald Rich
Thursday, June 2, 2022
Alys Anne Williams Wiedeke
Saturday, May 28, 2022
Your dear Dad, Mother and you were blessed to have each other as family and for as many years as you three had together. He was a remarkable man in so many ways and the closest relative I ever had to a brother. I hope there are wonderful reunions going on in heaven every time another soul joins loved ones. Please know that you always have a loving cousin here sending love and hugs.
Laurie Hunter Peterson
Friday, May 27, 2022
Laurie, John was a treasure in my life. As far back as the 70's I have memories of your fabulous Dad. During holidays or just going to my Dad's office and visiting with him - he was a true angel. I'm so sorry for your loss. Laurie Peterson
Bob Makara
Thursday, May 26, 2022
Laurie, my heart and prayers go out to you for your loss. Your father was a great man that did great things. I'm going to miss him and our facebook conversations. Rest in peace LTC Holt.
Karen Mcclain
Thursday, May 26, 2022
Laurie, I am so sorry too hear of the loss of your father ! He was one cool guy too me !! Love & Prayers Always !!! ðŸ™ðŸ»â¤ï¸
Steve
Thursday, May 26, 2022
Lauri, was saddened to hear of your dad’s passing. You had a true American hero as a father. Just his aviation history, is the stuff, good movies are made of. With being in the service, know you were moved around often, and it had to be hard to pick up and start over, thus the whole family has to sacrifice, the American people often forget about this. You should be very proud of your father. Prayers and hugs for you.
Steve Faubel
Sunday, May 22, 2022
John Holt was a great American. He was a true mentor of mine and will be dearly missed by many.
Catherine Thorpe
Thursday, May 19, 2022
We were neighbors with beloved ‘Mr. John’, and will so miss him.
Honored we go to know such a person!
Dave and Jacki Bruning
Wednesday, May 18, 2022
John was our boss, mentor and dear friend. He proudly served our country. There will never be another man like John. We were fortunate to be his friends. He will be greatly missed.
Kelly Bulloch
Tuesday, May 17, 2022
I will greatly miss Mr. John and hearing about his amazing life stories. He was a proud veteran who loved the USA, and it was my honor to be his neighbor. My thoughts and prayers are with his daughter and loved ones at this difficult time.
Tina and Steven Russell
Tuesday, May 17, 2022
Laurie and I have been friends for 48 years lots of great memories of a great man. Always a gentleman and would walk me to my car to insure I was safe. He will be remembered for the hero he is.